Vikings‘ Key Injuries Offer Potential Advantage to Bears in Upcoming Matchup
The Chicago Bears received positive news on the injury front ahead of their Sunday game against the Minnesota Vikings, as two key Vikings players have been ruled out. the absences of edge rusher Jonathan Greenard and center Ryan Kelly could significantly impact Minnesota’s performance and potentially ease pressure on bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
These injuries arrive at a crucial juncture for both teams. The Bears, seeking to build momentum early in the season, will face a Vikings defense missing a disruptive force in Greenard. Minnesota, meanwhile, will be navigating offensive challenges with a backup center and concerns surrounding quarterback J.J. McCarthy‘s hand.
Jonathan Greenard, who recorded three sacks and five tackles for loss in two games against the bears last season, will miss Sunday’s contest due to a shoulder injury. He has not practiced all week and has only registered two sacks this season. His replacement will be rookie Dallas Turner, the Vikings’ first-round pick in 2024, who has 4.5 career sacks and 1.5 this year.
Adding to the Vikings’ offensive woes, starting center Ryan Kelly remains sidelined with a concussion and is on injured reserve. Despite a recently opened 21-day practice window, he will not return in time for the game.Michael Jurgens, a 2024 draft pick, will make his fourth consecutive start at center, after the Vikings committed eight false starts during his debut last week.
While the Vikings report no other significant injuries, quarterback J.J. McCarthy has been practicing with a bandage on his throwing hand after it collided with a Baltimore Ravens player’s helmet during last week’s game.
