Vikings face injury woes following upset victory
The Minnesota Vikings celebrated a stunning upset against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night, but the joy was tempered by a series of injuries that struck key players throughout the game. As the team begins to assess the severity of these injuries, the outlook remains uncertain for several contributors.
Injury updates on Hargrave and O’Neill
Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave experienced what was initially labeled as a groin injury during the third quarter. However, after further evaluation, head coach Kevin O’Connell clarified that it is a thigh injury that will require an MRI for a more accurate assessment. “We’re calling it a thigh injury,” he noted. “We’re gonna need to MRI that, see where he’s at.”
At 32 years old, Hargrave was one of the Vikings’ prominent free-agent signings this offseason. With one year remaining on his contract, speculation swirls about his future, as the team may consider cutting or trading him to alleviate some cap space. Despite a solid performance this season, he has recorded just one sack since Week 1, when he notched two.
Right tackle Brian O’Neill also exited the game with an ankle/foot injury in the fourth quarter and did not return. O’Connell provided minimal details, stating that O’Neill would also undergo an MRI. The Vikings were already without left tackle Christian Darrisaw, forcing them to finish the game with Justin Skule and Blake Brandel protecting the edges. This latest injury adds to the team’s growing list of offensive line combinations, which had already reached 15 prior to Sunday’s game.
Concerns grow for Greenard and Rodgers
The injury situation did not stop there. Outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard aggravated a prior shoulder injury in the fourth quarter. “We’ll obviously need to take a look at him,” O’Connell remarked. Greenard had previously missed a couple of games due to his shoulder injury sustained against the Ravens. Despite his struggles, he has been a crucial part of the defense, leading the Vikings in pressures, although he had managed just two sacks before adding a pair of half-sacks in the recent matchup.
Additionally, cornerback Isaiah Rodgers suffered an elbow injury late in the game, potentially joining his teammates in the MRI room.
Nailor’s resilience showcased
In a more positive note, wide receiver Jalen Nailor endured a lower back injury while scoring a touchdown in the first quarter but managed to return and added another touchdown reception in the fourth quarter, showcasing his resilience.
As the Vikings prepare for their upcoming game against the struggling 2-12 Giants, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly awaiting updates on the health of these pivotal players. O’Connell is expected to provide further insights during his weekly press conference on Monday, but for now, all eyes will be on the first injury report due Wednesday.
