Today’s Vikings Injury Report Contains a “Welp” Detail

Not ideal.

Earlier in the day, the Vikings injury report got sent along for the world to see. Much of what’s contained is already known, such as QB1 Kyler Murray pushing to play on Sunday. What’s worrisome, though, is that RT1 Brian O’Neill didn’t participate in practice, creating some uncertainty about his readiness (or lack thereof) for Sunday’s Bears battle.

The Vikings Injury Report
Right Tackle Brian O’Neill a DNP on Friday

Losing Mr. O’Neill, were that to occur, would be quite the hindrance to where the Vikings are trying to go.

Already, the status of Murray is in doubt. Worse yet, Jordan Mason is now on the IR, meaning he’ll be missing the upcoming game (and several thereafter). The Vikings mostly came through training camp and the preseason unscathed; depth safety Jamal Adams and depth edge rusher Tyler Batty stand out as the lonely players to have lost their full seasons. And then there was backup center Michael Jurgens beginning the year on the IR.

The Week 1 game wasn’t so kind to the Vikings.

Over the years, Brian O’Neill has been the definition of quiet competence in Minnesota.

Originally, O’Neill got to the Twin Cities as a 2nd-Round selection, getting scooped up by Rick Spielman at No. 62 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft. Since then, O’Neill has been a mainstay who has helped to anchor the Vikings in ongoing competence. His impact hasn’t solely been on the offense. The rugged, athletic tackle has proven to be an overall cornerstone player for the team as a whole.

If the Vikings had 53 players like Brian O’Neill, there would be a Lombardi in Minnesota already.

Losing him for a game isn’t the death knell to the Vikings’ chance of winning. What it is, though, is a tough hurdle to overcome. OT3 Ryan Van Demark would be the starter at right tackle if O’Neill can’t go. OT4 Caleb Tiernan is coming off his own injury, but he appears capable of dressing, if needed.

Other players got listed on the Vikings injury report.

WR3 Jauan Jennings hasn’t been able to practice, but that’s due to a personal reason. There’s no indication he won’t be available for the upcoming NFC North game.

Linebacker Blake Cashman was a full participant while outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel was limited. Expect both veteran defenders to be out there.

And then there’s Murray, the elusive passer who got hit hard by a pair of Packers but in an awkward manner. He took a tough shot to the head, leading to his concussion. Minnesota would be wise to give him ample runway to return to health. It remains to be seen how the Vikings will handle the outcome.

Brian O’Neill has a well-earned reputation for being tough and competitive. If he’s capable of doing so, O’Neill will get onto the field.

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