Vikings Star Jonathan Greenard to Undergo Season-Ending Shoulder Surgery
The Minnesota Vikings are facing a significant blow as standout pass rusher Jonathan Greenard will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a shoulder injury. Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed on Monday that Greenard will undergo surgery, a decision stemming from an aggravated pre-existing condition sustained during Sunday night’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Injury Timeline and Impact
Greenard’s shoulder troubles date back to Week 10 when he initially suffered the injury against the Baltimore Ravens. Following that game, he missed two crucial matchups but made a commendable effort to return to the field, playing through discomfort in the weeks that followed. However, after departing from the second half of Sunday night’s contest, it became clear that surgical intervention was necessary to address the issue.
“We think it’s best to go ahead and get that thing fixed,” O’Connell stated. “So he’ll have surgery, hopefully in the near future, and start that process of rehab.” With surgery on the horizon, Greenard will shift his focus towards recovery and preparing for the 2026 season.
A Stellar First Season
Since joining the Vikings in March 2024, Greenard has made a significant impact on the team. In his first season, he showcased his abilities with an impressive tally of 12 sacks, 18 tackles for loss (TFL), 80 pressures, and four forced fumbles. His performance not only earned him a Pro Bowl selection but also an 11th-place finish in the Defensive Player of the Year voting.
This season, however, has been a different story for Greenard. While he has recorded only three sacks, he remains a pivotal player on the defensive front, leading the team with 47 pressures and contributing 10 tackles for loss. His relentless pursuit and ability to disrupt offensive plays have solidified his status as one of the team’s top players and leaders.
Leadership and Influence
O’Connell praised Greenard’s leadership, highlighting the profound impact he has had on the team. “As a captain and a leader on our team, he’s had a huge impact,” he remarked. “What he’s meant to me and our team and what we were able to do as a football team, specifically over these last two weeks. JG and his leadership and his commitment to being a foundational player for us has been on full display.”
With Greenard now focused on rehabilitation, the Vikings will have to navigate the remainder of the season without one of their key defensive assets. As the team prepares for the upcoming challenges, they remain hopeful for Greenard’s swift recovery and return to form in the future.
