Vikings to start undrafted rookie QB Max Brosmer against Seahawks due to J.J. McCarthy's concussion injury

The Minnesota Vikings will rely on undrafted rookie quarterback Max Brosmer when they travel to Seattle to face the Seahawks, as J.J. McCarthy remains sidelined due to a concussion. Brosmer, who made an impression in the preseason, has already seen some action this season filling in for Carson Wentz.

The Seahawks, holding an 8-win record, are just a game behind the Los Angeles Rams in the competitive NFC West. Quarterback Sam Darnold, in his first season with Seattle after signing a three-year, $100 million contract in free agency, leads the team. Darnold earned the deal following a strong season in Minnesota last year, stepping in for an injured McCarthy and guiding the Vikings to a playoff berth with a 14-3 record.

With McCarthy unable to clear concussion protocol following last weeks loss to the Green Bay Packers, the Vikings are turning to 24-year-old Brosmer to start at Lumen Field. Backup duties for Sunday will fall to John Wolford, according to ESPN's Kevin Seifert.

Vikings head coach Kevin OConnell commented on McCarthys status: Hes progressing but just not able to clear the last few steps. The protocol exists for a reason, and we rely on the doctors decisions. Were pleased with his recovery, but hes not ready yet.

Brosmer completed four seasons at the University of New Hampshire before spending a final collegiate year at Minnesota. Going undrafted this year, he signed with the Vikings as a free agent and impressed during the preseason, completing 35 of 58 passes for 364 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. In one notable preseason game against the Tennessee Titans, Brosmer completed 15 of 23 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown.

After making the roster, Brosmer initially served as a backup to McCarthy and Wentz. He temporarily stepped in for Wentz during McCarthys five-game absence and had limited action in relief of Wentz in Week 3 against the Cincinnati Bengals and Week 8 against the Los Angeles Chargers, completing 5 of 8 passes for 42 yards.

With Wentz sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a shoulder injury, Brosmer has now been promoted to the starting role, taking on a much larger responsibility. Max had a really strong week of practice, OConnell said. His preparation has been consistent since training camp. The team has confidence in him, and Im excited to see him play.

Brosmer will face a formidable Seahawks defense that ranks seventh in the NFL in points allowed per game (19.7) and is tied for second in fewest yards allowed per play (4.6). Despite the challenge, he has the chance to ignite a Vikings offense that has struggled for consistency this season. Getting ready for my first start was a wake-up moment, Brosmer said. I feel like weve handled it well and Im ready for the opportunity.

Analysis: The Minnesota Vikings Face a Quarterback Challenge Against the Seahawks

The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in an unusual position as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks. With starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy sidelined due to a concussion, the team has turned to undrafted rookie Max Brosmer to lead their offense. While Brosmer’s lack of experience at the professional level raises questions, his strong preseason performances have given the Vikings coaching staff enough confidence to hand him the reins for Sunday’s matchup.

Brosmer, 24, has already had a taste of game action this season, filling in for Carson Wentz during his absence. His performances have been modest but steady, most notably completing 5 of 8 passes for 42 yards in relief duty. The Vikings will need him to step up in a major way against the Seahawks, who have one of the NFL’s top defenses, ranked seventh in points allowed per game and tied for second in fewest yards allowed per play. Facing such a challenge in his first NFL start will test Brosmer's poise and readiness.

While the Seahawks have shown vulnerabilities in their offense under quarterback Sam Darnold, who joined the team after a successful season with the Vikings, the defense remains their strength. Darnold’s ability to manage games will put extra pressure on the Vikings' offense to stay competitive, making Brosmer’s performance even more critical to Minnesota’s chances of staying in the hunt for a playoff spot.

As head coach Kevin O'Connell pointed out, the team has faith in Brosmer’s preparation and believes in his potential. With Wentz ruled out for the season, this is a defining moment for the rookie quarterback, who now carries the hopes of the franchise as they seek to maintain their postseason aspirations. Sunday’s game could serve as a crucial milestone in Brosmer’s development, marking the beginning of what could be a pivotal period for the Vikings' offense.

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• Vikings will start undrafted rookie QB Max Brosmer vs. Seahawks, with J.J. McCarthy sidelined by concussion