Vikings face defensive hurdles with Harrison Smith and others sidelined against Falcons
The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for a challenging Sunday night showdown against the Atlanta Falcons, but the team will be without several key defensive players. Among the most significant absences is veteran safety Harrison Smith, who has officially been ruled out for the game.
Harrison Smith’s Season Debut Delayed
Harrison Smith, now in his 14th NFL season, was anticipated to make his season debut this week. However, an illness has forced him to miss the game, prolonging his wait to return to the field. Smith’s absence comes after a period of limited participation in training camp due to personal health concerns. While he has returned to practice over the past couple of weeks, the Vikings have opted to hold him back for at least one more week.
Reports indicate that the team may be taking a cautious approach with Smith, as confirmed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport. His wealth of experience, leadership in the secondary, and playmaking ability will certainly be missed as the Vikings prepare to face a formidable Falcons offense.
Next Man Up: Jay Ward Steps In
In Smith’s absence, the Vikings will rely on third-year player Jay Ward to step into the role of third safety, alongside Josh Metellus and Theo Jackson. In the season opener, Metellus and Jackson played every defensive snap, while Ward contributed with 25 plays. The coaching staff remains optimistic about the capabilities of Ward, Jackson, and Metellus to fill the void left by Smith.
Injury Woes for the Defense
The challenges don’t stop with Smith. Minnesota’s defense will also be without outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, linebacker Blake Cashman, and cornerback Jeff Okudah due to injuries. Both Van Ginkel and Okudah are currently in concussion protocol, while Cashman is sidelined for at least four games due to a hamstring injury. This situation will necessitate larger roles for Dallas Turner and others at outside linebacker, Eric Wilson stepping in at linebacker, and either Dwight McGlothern or Fabian Moreau at cornerback.
Vikings’ Inactive List for Sunday Night
The Vikings’ inactive list for the game against the Falcons includes:
S Harrison Smith
LT Christian Darrisaw
OLB Andrew Van Ginkel
CB Jeff Okudah
OL Joe Huber
LB Austin Keys
QB Max Brosmer (emergency No. 3 QB)
The majority of players listed, with the exception of Huber and Brosmer, are dealing with injuries that have prevented them from contributing in this crucial matchup.
Falcons’ Inactive Players
On the other side of the field, the Falcons will also be missing several players. Their inactive list includes:
K Younghoe Koo
WR Jamal Agnew
CB Clark Phillips III
OL Jack Nelson
WR Casey Washington
DL Sam Roberts
Both teams will face significant challenges as they navigate their respective injury lists, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup on Sunday night.
