Adam Thielen surprisingly inactive as Vikings prepare for Seahawks matchup
The Minnesota Vikings face a challenging situation ahead of their Sunday showdown against the Seattle Seahawks. In a surprising turn of events, just 90 minutes before kickoff, the team announced the status of several key players. Of the five notable names in question, three are active, two have been ruled out, and veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen has unexpectedly been added to the inactive list for undisclosed reasons.
Thielen’s absence is particularly striking considering his recent acquisition. Traded to the Vikings during the preseason for multiple draft picks, including a fourth-round selection, he has struggled to make an impact this season, recording only eight receptions for 69 yards. Last week, he played a mere three snaps in a game against the Green Bay Packers, and throughout the season, he has not exceeded 13 snaps in any contest.
With Thielen sidelined, the Vikings will rely on a young receiving corps featuring Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jalen Nailor, Tai Felton, and Myles Price. Notably, Price and Felton have primarily contributed on kick and punt returns, adding another layer of challenge to the team’s offensive strategy.
Defensive and Offensive Adjustments
On the defensive front, linebacker Jonathan Greenard, who leads the Vikings with 37 pressures this season, will make his return after missing the last two games due to a shoulder injury. His presence will bolster Minnesota’s pass rush, as he joins fellow edge rushers Andrew Van Ginkel and Dallas Turner.
However, the Vikings will have to navigate a depleted offensive line, as they will be without two starters. Left guard Donovan Jackson has been ruled out with an ankle injury, while left tackle Christian Darrisaw is sidelined due to knee and foot issues. Jackson’s status was confirmed on Friday, while Darrisaw’s decision to sit out came after a pregame workout. Consequently, Justin Skule will step in as the starting left tackle, with Blake Brandel returning to the starting lineup at left guard.
Defensively, two of the three questionable players—defensive tackle Jalen Redmond and safeties Josh Metellus and Theo Jackson—are active. Redmond, who has been dealing with a hip injury, will play. Metellus will also suit up despite hip and shoulder injuries, while Jackson has been ruled out due to a neck injury.
Adding further complexity to the Vikings’ situation is the absence of quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is sidelined with a concussion. This sets the stage for Max Brosmer to make his first career start under center, with John Wolford serving as the backup.
The game is set to kick off at 3:05 p.m. CT, as the Vikings look to navigate these unexpected challenges against a formidable Seahawks team.
