The Minnesota Vikings have won their past nine contests, putting themselves in a position to win the top spot in the NFC playoff picture with a victory on Sunday. The obstacle in their way is the Detroit Lions, part of the NFL’s top class and one of only two teams that have defeated the Vikings this season.
2 Vikings Defenders in Danger of Missing Sunday’s Clash
Detroit’s injury struggles have been well-documented. The division rivals have a loaded roster but countless players on IR, including top defenders Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and Carlton Davis.
Sep 8, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. (7) celebrates with teammate Christian Darrisaw (71) after a defensive stop during the second half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Compared to the Lions, the Vikings are quite healthy. However, there are still some issues. Christian Darrisaw’s season-ending knee injury hurt the club, and so did J.J. McCarthy’s surgery.
In addition to the long-term injuries, the Vikings have some short-term wounds, and two players missed Wednesday’s practice, according to the team’s official injury report.
Pass rusher Patrick Jones II suffered a knee injury in the last game against the Green Bay Packers. Opposing tight end Tucker Kraft went low on a block, a play that is within the rules and happens numerous times in a game, but caused a reaction from Jones’ teammates, including a comment on X from Jonathan Greenard. Considering the attempts to make the game safer, the NFL could look into the rule in the future.
Oct 8, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws a pass as Minnesota Vikings linebacker Pat Jones II (91) defends during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
The defender is a rotational player who comes into the game whenever Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel need a breather or Brian Flores wants an additional pass rusher on the field. Jones has played in 15 games this year, recording seven sacks and 39 tackles.
Jones is in the final year of his rookie contract, and a decent campaign will help him get some interest in March. An absence would lead to more snaps for rookie first-rounder Dallas Turner, who has recently made some splashy plays. The good news, though, is that the serious-looking injury seems to be somewhat minor.
Linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill also missed Wednesday’s practice. He is the primary backup for Ivan Pace and Blake Cashman, who have missed some time this season.
Dec 16, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus (44) reacts with linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill (54) after a fourth down stop against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
The veteran journeyman defender and special teamer has appeared in all 16 contests, recording 18 tackles and two interceptions. He has played 179 defensive snaps and 317 on special teams. Brian Asamoah would be elevated to LB3 behind the two starters, but do-it-all safety Joshua Metellus would get the nod ahead of him.
More clarity will arise in the upcoming days when the Vikings release more injury reports.
Aaron Jones suffered a quad contusion in the game against the Packers and was held out of some plays, resulting in Cam Akers’ heroics. His limited status is good news. After practice, he claimed he would be ready to go.
Health is key this late in the season, and the Vikings are in a better spot than many other organizations.
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