Vikings-Packers border battle: Hitman returns, Wentz named backup QB
![KOC details prep ahead of week 1 vs. Packers [FULL]](https://static-media.fox.com/fmcv3/prod/fts/djwo8j0rzgd79ash/t3yab2ppz69qz4xo.jpg)
KOC details prep ahead of week 1 vs. Packers [FULL]
Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell answers questions on the upcoming preparation for the season opener against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium, including the return of safety Harrison Smith and who will be backup quarterback.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The Minnesota Vikings are settling into their regular routine as they prepare for Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers.
Vikings ready for the Packers
Vikings KOC details decision to bring Harrison Smith
Detailing the upcoming week one opener against the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell details the decision and process behind bringing back safety Harrison Smith at the end of training camp for the upcoming season.
Harrison Smith returns:
Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed that Harrison Smith is back for his 15th season as the Vikings safety.
The coach said the team was really excited to get him back and believes everyone got better because of it.
O'Connell noted there's a chance Smith could play this weekend, crediting his ability to stay in shape.
He shared that he started to sense Smith would return during their weekly conversations in recent weeks, though he understands that returning during training camp isn't always appealing for a veteran player.
O'Connell added he's looking forward to having coffee with Smith in his office on Fridays and expects to get smarter from those conversations.
J.J. McCarthy will start season as 3rd string QB
Saying he can apply a "career’s worth of experience," Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell said on Wednesday that Carson Wentz will begin the season as the Vikings backup quarterback, effectively demoting former first round pick J.J. McCarthy to third string in a move that gives the team the "best chance to win" against the Packers on Sunday.
Quarterback depth chart set:
O'Connell also addressed the backup quarterback situation.
He said J.J. McCarthy will be the Vikings' third-string quarterback, while Carson Wentz will back up Kyler Murray.
The coach described the backup situation as a week-to-week decision.
With more than 100 career starts, O'Connell said Wentz gives the team the best chance to win as a backup, given his experience in the NFL.
O'Connell said he's still excited to work with McCarthy and wants to keep the backup role flexible in case they need to make a change.
He called this a progression that allows McCarthy to develop without pressure, since he's still two snaps away from playing.
O'Connell said McCarthy had some great questions about the game plan and brings a lot of energy.
He noted McCarthy only has 10 starts and is a young player, but he's eager to help him get ready for when his time comes.
The Source: This story uses information gathered by FOX 9 sports reporter Ahmad Hicks.