Following their absence from the previous two games due to injuries, right lineman Brian O’Neill and running back Alexander Mattison were able to return to practice on Friday. This gave fans hope that both players may play Sunday against the Lions.
They are one of six players who are declared doubtful for Sunday’s 12 p.m. CT kickoff against Detroit, despite their optimistic outlook. Minnesota has to win this game to at least postpone Detroit’s division championship.
Hicks has stated repeatedly this week that he intends to return to action following surgery to treat a shin ailment caused by compartment syndrome. However, Pace Jr. appeared on the injury list for the first time this week, possibly due to a shoulder injury sustained during practice on Thursday or Friday.
Regarding Pace’s status, head coach Kevin O’Connell stated that he “feels good” and that the rookie linebacker is merely experiencing some shoulder pain.
O’Connell said of Hicks, “Jordan’s been flying around all week,” and mentioned that the organisation will soon determine whether to activate him off injured reserve.
The only players declared out of Sunday’s NFC North matchup are cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. (hamstring) and wide receiver Jalen Nailor (concussion).
To maintain their hopes of winning the NFC North, the Vikings need to win on Sunday. Indeed, for the Vikings to win the division, they must prevail and Detroit must lose. Given that the Vikings play the Lions twice and Detroit’s other game is in Dallas, that is a very real possibility.
