Patrick Mahomes witnesses his most respected Chiefs backup break down

For some reason, certain quarterbacks have never managed to fully take off in the NFL. Despite carrying high expectations, players like Carson Wentz never achieved the stardom they once seemed destined for when they entered the league.

He had more than enough talent, but something went wrong along the way. His career took a steep downturn, and he was never able to regain the spotlight he once held. Injuries, and perhaps a gradual loss of confidence, ultimately worked against him.

Vikings will place Carson Wentz on IR. Wentz will undergo season-ending surgery on his left shoulder. pic.twitter.com/eh9WWYT9RL

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 27, 2025

The truth is that Wentz is now a backup quarterback who generally fulfills his role competently, though lately he has struggled more than expected with the Minnesota Vikings.

Carson Wentz recalls his time with the Kansas City Chiefs as Mahomes’ backup
Wentz reflected on what it was like to serve as Patrick Mahomes’ understudy with the Chiefs.

there was no need to have him play as long as he did

Vikings down 34-10 in the 4th and every series ending with Carson Wentz in agony

completely unnecessary https://t.co/iqjfr3uakQ pic.twitter.com/l023I8a6lw

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) October 27, 2025

Being behind Patrick has been another new experience for me. I’ve been able to see Patrick play at a high level and see this organization through a different lens. It’s been fun doing it.

And whenever Wentz was called upon to step in, his offensive coordinator knew he could rely on his trusted backup.

You have to be mentally strong as the backup… And it’s the same thing this week. I’d like to say something changes; it doesn’t. Carson prepares like the best of them. He knows if he has to play, he’ll be ready.  Now, life has taken him to Minnesota, where another unfortunate twist has struck again.

Vikings QB Carson Wentz to undergo shoulder surgery, will miss rest of season. (via @rapsheet, @tompelissero, @mikegarafolo) pic.twitter.com/3COM2EBjAj

— NFL (@NFL) October 27, 2025

Carson Wentz to undergo shoulder surgery
As the saying goes, the train rarely stops twice at the same station. Just as Wentz had earned another chance to start, this time filling in for JJ McCarthy, bad luck returned.

Wentz started two and a half games in McCarthy’s absence, but on Monday, March 27, he was placed on the injured reserve list. He will require shoulder surgery and will miss the remainder of the season.

The procedure will be on his left shoulder, the non-throwing arm, but the discomfort had become significant enough to require surgical intervention.

Under Wentz’s leadership, the Vikings posted a 2-3 record. The injury reportedly originated in their October 5 game in London against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The problem likely worsened last Thursday against the Chargers, when several offensive linemen were already banged up. Wentz was visibly in pain throughout the contest, and although he wore protective gear on his arm, it provided little relief.

Fortunately for the Vikings, McCarthy appears lose to returning to action and could be ready to play by Sunday, November 2. For Wentz, however, it marks yet another setback in a career marked by resilience, frustration, and the persistent hope that experience might still offer him one more chance.