The Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback situation is one of the biggest storylines heading into Week 2 of the 2026 NFL season, with Kyler Murray’s availability potentially determining whether Carson Wentz gets the start against the Chicago Bears.
Minnesota is scheduled to face Chicago on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. ET, and Murray’s status will be closely watched leading up to kickoff.
Will Kyler Murray Start for the Vikings in Week 2?
Kyler Murray is Minnesota’s preferred starting quarterback when healthy, but his Week 2 availability is uncertain after suffering a concussion during the Vikings’ Week 1 victory over the Green Bay Packers.
Murray entered the NFL’s concussion protocol following the injury. He was able to return to practice on a limited basis Wednesday, keeping open the possibility that he could receive clearance to play against Chicago.
Being a limited participant, however, does not automatically mean Murray will play. He still must complete the required steps of the NFL concussion protocol before being cleared for game action.
If Murray receives clearance before Sunday, he would be expected to start for Minnesota.
Carson Wentz Could Start Against the Bears
If Kyler Murray is unable to clear concussion protocol, Carson Wentz is expected to become the Vikings’ Week 2 starting quarterback.
Wentz stepped in after Murray left Minnesota’s Week 1 game against Green Bay. He completed 12 of 19 passes for 133 yards and three touchdowns, giving the Vikings an experienced option if Murray cannot play.
Wentz has extensive NFL starting experience, so Minnesota would not be turning to an inexperienced quarterback in an important NFC North matchup.
Minnesota Vikings Quarterback Depth Chart
The Vikings entered the 2026 regular season with the following quarterback depth chart:
QB1: Kyler Murray
QB2: Carson Wentz
QB3: J.J. McCarthy
That makes Wentz the logical choice to start if Murray is ruled out.
When Will the Vikings Announce Their Starting Quarterback?
More clarity should come with Minnesota’s final injury report ahead of Sunday’s game.
Because Murray is dealing with a concussion, his availability depends on receiving the necessary medical clearance rather than simply determining whether he feels ready to play.
The Vikings could therefore wait until relatively close to game day before Murray’s status is finalized.
Vikings vs. Bears Week 2 Game Information
Matchup: Minnesota Vikings vs. Chicago Bears
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. CT
Week: NFL Week 2
Who Is Expected to Start at QB for Minnesota?
For now, Kyler Murray remains the Vikings’ preferred starter if he clears concussion protocol. If Murray is not cleared, Carson Wentz is expected to start against the Chicago Bears.
Murray’s progress through concussion protocol will therefore be the key development to watch before Minnesota announces its final Week 2 quarterback plans.