Blog · Week 9 · November 5, 2026
Should you pick up Carson Wentz in Week 9?
Carson Wentz has been named the starter against Buffalo due to Kyler Murray's hamstring injury. He is a desperation play for deep leagues.
The current situation for Carson Wentz
The big news in Minnesota is the confirmation of Carson Wentz as the starting quarterback for the Week 9 matchup against Buffalo. With Kyler Murray ruled out due to a hamstring injury, the 10-year veteran takes over the offense. During the 2026 season, Wentz has appeared in 2 games, tallying 25.5 PPR pts, averaging 12.8 pts per game. His performance has been volatile; he posted 19.2 pts against Green Bay but struggled with only 6.3 pts against Chicago. Fantasy managers are now looking at Wentz as a short-term replacement, though his actual upside remains a significant question mark for the upcoming Monday night contest.
Matchup analysis and projections
Wentz faces a Buffalo defense that represents a MATCHUP NEUTRAL. This unit allows an average of 19 pts per game to opposing QBs, ranking as the Nº11 defense out of 32. Our FX model projects Wentz to score 14.1 PPR, Half, and STD pts, placing him as the QB30 for the week. Despite the guaranteed start, his ceiling is capped against a competent defensive unit. Given his recent output and the nature of the matchup, fantasy managers should not expect a high-scoring performance, making him a risky start in most standard formats where better streaming options might be available on the waiver wire.
Community and fantasy outlook
The fantasy community has been active regarding Wentz, with 270738 additions in the last 24 hours and zero drops. This surge is driven by the immediate need to fill the void left by Murray's injury in deeper leagues. However, caution is advised. While the starting role is secure for this week, Wentz's lack of consistent production and the difficulty of the matchup against Buffalo suggest he is a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution. Unless you are in a deep Superflex league, there are likely better bench stashes available. Assess your roster needs carefully before spending significant FAAB or waiver priority on a low-ceiling quarterback.
Fantasy advice
WAIT · In 1 QB leagues, Carson Wentz is a SIT. His 14.1 pts projection is too low to provide a safe floor. In PPR, Half, and STD formats, he is only a FLEX option in 2 QB or Superflex leagues where the waiver wire is depleted. Avoid starting him if you have other streamers with higher rushing upside. He is a desperation play, not a league winner. Hold your waiver priority if you have a more reliable backup option available on your bench or if your matchup is not critical.
Projection from the FX Model, Fantasy Expertos' own system.
FAQ
Is Carson Wentz starting in Week 9?
Yes, Carson Wentz will start for the Vikings against Buffalo with Kyler Murray ruled out.
What is Wentz's projection for Week 9?
Our FX model projects 14.1 pts for Carson Wentz against the Buffalo defense.
Should I start Wentz in my fantasy lineup?
Only in Superflex or 2 QB leagues where no better alternatives are available on the wire.