Vikings to decide Week 7 quarterback starter as McCarthy rehabs

EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings returned to the practice field Monday after a bye week with quarterback J.J. McCarthy taking part in a light workout, but coach Kevin OConnell said the team will not decide who starts Week 7 against the Philadelphia Eagles until later in the week. McCarthy, who has missed the past three games with a sprained ankle, practiced as he progresses through rehab; veteran Carson Wentz, who has filled in and led the club to two victories, is also expected to be available after resting a sore nonthrowing shoulder.

McCarthy injured his ankle in the Vikings’ Week 2 loss to Atlanta and has not practiced since Week 1. He missed his entire rookie year recovering from knee surgery and has played only two regular-season games this season, completing 58.5 percent of his passes for 301 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions. In his first start this season he rallied Minnesota with three fourth-quarter touchdown passes to beat Chicago, then struggled in the home opener before leaving with the ankle injury.

OConnell said McCarthy “got some good work out there” during the bye and called him “very fortunate” to have time with coaches. He cautioned, however,...