The Minnesota Vikings are navigating a short week as they prepare for a Thursday Night Football matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, but their offensive line remains a point of concern. Right tackle Brian O’Neill, a cornerstone of the unit, was listed as a non-participant (DNP) on Tuesday’s injury report for the second consecutive day, raising questions about his availability. After suffering a sprained MCL in Week 4 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, O’Neill made his return to the field on Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles, playing all 69 offensive snaps. However, his absence from practice this week has sparked speculation: is this a cautious rest strategy, or a sign of a lingering issue?
O’Neill’s performance against the Eagles was notable, earning a 72.6 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade against a formidable defensive front. This suggests he’s still capable of performing at a high level despite not being at 100%. With only three days between games, the Vikings may be prioritizing rest to ensure their star tackle is ready for Thursday’s contest. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has remained tight-lipped about O’Neill’s status, leaving fans and analysts awaiting Wednesday’s injury report for clarity.
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The Vikings’ offensive line has been plagued by injuries all season. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw, left guard Donovan Jackson, and right guard Will Fries are expected to start, but center Ryan Kelly remains sidelined on injured reserve due to multiple concussions. If O’Neill is unable to play, Minnesota may turn to backups Walter Rouse or Justin Skule at right tackle, a position critical to protecting the quarterback against the Chargers’ pass rush.
Tuesday’s injury report also listed fullback C.J. Ham as a DNP, while quarterback J.J. McCarthy, defensive back Xavier Scott, and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel were limited participants. Running back Aaron Jones Sr. returned to the injury report as a limited participant after the team opened his practice window. Meanwhile, quarterback Carson Wentz, defensive lineman Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, and guard Donovan Jackson were full participants, signaling their likely availability.
The compressed schedule adds urgency to O’Neill’s situation. If his absence from practice is precautionary, the Vikings could have their full starting offensive line (minus Kelly) ready to face a Chargers defense that will look to exploit any weaknesses. However, if O’Neill’s knee injury is more serious than initially thought, Minnesota may need to adjust their game plan on a short week.
Wednesday’s injury report will be pivotal in determining whether O’Neill’s missed practices are a strategic rest or a cause for concern. For now, Vikings fans can only hope their stalwart tackle is ready to anchor the line in Los Angeles.