Adam Thielen Surprises as Vikings Inactive Against Seahawks
In a stunning turn of events, the Minnesota Vikings have declared veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen inactive for their matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. This announcement came just 90 minutes ahead of kickoff, adding to the already complex injury situation facing the team.
Injury Updates and Lineup Changes
Out of five key players listed for Sunday’s game, three have been confirmed as active while two have been ruled out. Thielen’s absence is particularly noteworthy, as he has only managed eight receptions for 69 yards this season following a trade that saw the Vikings give up multiple draft picks, including a fourth-rounder, to bring him onboard during the preseason.
His limited participation has been concerning; last week against the Packers, Thielen played a mere three snaps, and he has not exceeded 13 snaps in any game this season. In his absence, the Vikings will rely on a receiving corps featuring Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jalen Nailor, Tai Felton, and Myles Price. Notably, both Price and Felton have primarily focused on kick and punt returns this season.
Defensive Strengths and Offensive Challenges
On the defensive side, linebacker Jonathan Greenard will return after missing the last two games due to a shoulder injury. Greenard leads the Vikings with 37 pressures this season, and his presence will bolster a defensive front that also includes Andrew Van Ginkel and Dallas Turner.
However, the offensive line faces significant hurdles, as two starters will be sidelined. Left guard Donovan Jackson has been ruled out due to an ankle injury, a decision made on Friday. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw also will not play, having undergone a pregame workout before the team opted to keep him on the sidelines due to knee and foot issues. In their stead, Justin Skule will take the helm at left tackle, while Blake Brandel steps back into the starting role at left guard.
Quarterback Situation and Defensive Adjustments
Compounding the challenge, the Vikings will also be without quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is out with a concussion. This sets the stage for Max Brosmer to make his first career start. Meanwhile, John Wolford, who has been sidelined since 2022, will serve as the backup quarterback for the game.
Defensively, two of the three questionable players—defensive tackle Jalen Redmond and safeties Josh Metellus and Theo Jackson—are set to play. Redmond, coping with a hip injury, will be active, and Metellus will also take the field despite hip and shoulder issues. However, Jackson has been ruled out due to a neck injury.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 3:05 p.m. CT, and the Vikings will need to navigate these challenges to secure a crucial victory against the Seahawks.
