The Minnesota Vikings are charging into their Week 3 showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals with a depleted roster but a massive surge of momentum. Despite missing their starting quarterback and top center, the Vikings are set to unleash a trio of game-changing stars—left tackle Christian Darrisaw, safety Harrison Smith, and outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel—who are all expected to make their 2025 regular-season debuts. This $33.2 million powerhouse trio is poised to turn the tide for Minnesota, delivering a devastating blow to opposing defenses.
The return of Christian Darrisaw, Harrison Smith, and Andrew Van Ginkel couldn’t come at a better time for a Vikings squad navigating a turbulent start to the season. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, both Darrisaw (recovering from a knee injury) and Smith (sidelined by an undisclosed illness) are slated to start against the Bengals, though they may rotate to manage their workloads. ESPN’s Adam Schefter also confirmed that Van Ginkel, a 2024 Second Team All-Pro and Pro Bowler, will see action in a limited capacity after being listed as “questionable” on the team’s Friday injury report.
This trio’s return is a lifeline for a team grappling with significant absences. With their starting quarterback out and backup Justin Skule sidelined after a Week 2 injury against the Atlanta Falcons, the Vikings are leaning heavily on their returning stars to stabilize the roster. The combined contracts of Darrisaw, Smith, and Van Ginkel—totaling $33.2 million, including Van Ginkel’s one-year, $23 million extension kicking in next season and Smith’s $10.2 million deal—underscore the elite talent rejoining the lineup.
No one will feel the impact of Darrisaw’s return more than quarterback Carson Wentz, who joined the Vikings on August 26 and is set to make his debut under intense pressure. The 2021 first-round draft pick, Darrisaw, is a cornerstone of Minnesota’s offensive line, and his presence protecting Wentz’s blindside is a game-changer. While the Bengals’ pass rush has been modest, with just three sacks through two weeks, Wentz’s mobility in his 10th NFL season will be amplified with Darrisaw anchoring the line. Compared to backup options, Darrisaw’s return is a monumental upgrade, giving Wentz the confidence to operate in the pocket against Cincinnati’s defense.
At 36 years old and in his 14th NFL season, Harrison Smith remains a cornerstone of the Vikings’ defense. The 2017 First Team All-Pro safety, who missed training camp and the preseason due to an undisclosed illness, is known for his durability, never missing more than two games in a season since 2015. His return brings a steadying presence to a revamped Vikings secondary, which features two new cornerbacks and a fresh face at safety. As The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported, Smith’s debut is all but certain barring a last-minute setback, and his veteran instincts will be critical in an interconference clash with the Bengals.
Adding to the excitement, Andrew Van Ginkel’s return bolsters Minnesota’s pass rush. The 2024 Pro Bowler and Second Team All-Pro made waves in his first season with the Vikings, and his presence on the edge will be a nightmare for Cincinnati’s offensive line. Under contract through 2026, Van Ginkel’s return signals Minnesota’s intent to dominate defensively, even if his snaps are limited in Week 3. His ability to disrupt plays and pressure the quarterback will be a key factor in containing the Bengals’ potent offense.
The Vikings’ reinforcements don’t stop with this trio. Wide receiver Jordan Addison is set to return in Week 4 following a suspension, adding another weapon to Minnesota’s arsenal. For a team facing adversity at quarterback and across the roster, these returns provide a much-needed spark. With Darrisaw, Smith, and Van Ginkel back in action, the Vikings are as well-equipped as they could hope to be for their Week 3 battle.
As the Vikings prepare to face the Bengals, the return of this $33.2 million trio sends a clear message: Minnesota is ready to fight. Darrisaw’s protection, Smith’s leadership, and Van Ginkel’s relentless pressure give the Vikings a fighting chance to overcome their challenges and make a statement in this interconference matchup. For opposing defenses, the news couldn’t be worse—the Vikings’ wall is officially back, and they’re ready to dominate.