EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings will be without two key players and face uncertainty around several others as they prepare for their Week 1 Monday Night Football clash against the Chicago Bears.
The Vikings have ruled out running back Zavier Scott and defensive lineman Elijah Williams for the 7:15 p.m. CT kickoff at Soldier Field, while veteran safety Harrison Smith remains doubtful, and left tackle Christian Darrisaw is listed as questionable.
Key Vikings Injury Updates
Ruled Out:
- Zavier Scott (RB) – Ankle injury sustained in the preseason finale
- Elijah Williams (DL) – Hamstring injury from preseason finale
Doubtful:
- Harrison Smith (S) – Recovering from an August illness that has limited his practice participation
Questionable:
- Christian Darrisaw (T) – Following a detailed ramp-up plan after suffering a knee injury in Week 8 of 2024
The loss of Scott removes depth from the Vikings’ backfield, while Williams’ absence impacts the defensive line rotation. However, the most significant concern centers around Smith and Darrisaw.
Smith, a six-time Pro Bowler and team captain, has been working his way back from an illness that struck in August. His veteran leadership and defensive playmaking ability would be crucial against a Bears offense looking to make a statement in their season opener.
Darrisaw’s status remains the most critical storyline. The Pro Bowl left tackle has been on a carefully managed recovery program following his late-season knee injury in 2024. His protection of quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s blind side will be essential for the young signal-caller making his first NFL start.
Vikings News:
- Minnesota Vikings Add Veteran Safety K’Von Wallace to Practice Squad
- Minnesota Vikings Complete Practice Squad Construction with Strategic Mix of Veterans and International Talent
- Adam Thielen Returns Home: Vikings Trade for Beloved Wide Receiver in Emotional Homecoming
- Vikings Announce 2025 Season Captains: Three First-Time Leaders Join Veteran Core
Bears Dealing with Their Own Concerns
Chicago enters the matchup with their own injury questions, particularly in the secondary and linebacker corps.
Bears Injury Report:
- T.J. Edwards (LB) – Doubtful with hamstring injury
- Roschon Johnson (RB) – Questionable with foot injury
- Josh Blackwell (CB) – Questionable with groin injury
- Jaylon Johnson (CB) – Questionable with calf/groin injuries
The potential absence of Edwards would be significant for Chicago’s defense, as the veteran linebacker serves as a key communicator and run-stopper in their defensive scheme.
Practice Week Adjustments
Due to the Monday night scheduling, both teams adjusted their typical practice routines. The Vikings published their first injury report Thursday, conducted a walk-through Friday (with estimated participation levels), and concluded preparations with a full practice Saturday.
Several Vikings players practiced without limitations throughout the week, including wide receiver Jalen Nailor (hand) and outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (neck), suggesting they’ll be available for the season opener.
Monday Night Implications
The injury situations for both teams add intrigue to what’s already a compelling divisional matchup. The Vikings’ offensive line depth will be tested if Darrisaw cannot play, while their defensive secondary may need to compensate for Smith’s potential absence.
For Chicago, questions in their secondary could create opportunities for Minnesota’s receiving corps, led by captain Justin Jefferson and supported by a deep group of targets.
As both teams prepare to kick off their 2025 campaigns under the Monday Night Football spotlight, the final injury designations could significantly impact the game’s outcome and set the tone for the NFC North division race.
The Vikings and Bears kick off at 7:15 p.m. CT on Monday Night Football from Soldier Field in Chicago.
“Game Day. Done Right.”
When the Vikings take the field, you need a beer that matches your passion. Michelob Ultra – the superior light beer for superior fans. Low carbs, full flavor, pure game day energy.
Michelob Ultra. It’s Only Worth It.
“Your Season. Your Legacy.”
Think you can coach better than Kevin O’Connell? Prove it. Build your dynasty with the Vikings’ new captains in Madden NFL 26. Every play matters. Every decision counts.
Madden NFL 26 – Where Champions Are Made.
🏈 That’s your Vikings Injury Report breakdown from Bad Dawg Sports – your source for insider access and authentic coverage.
From rookie sensations to veteran legends, we bring you the stories behind the stories with our exclusive press credentials and former athlete perspective.
Want more exclusive Vikings content and breaking news before anyone else?
📧 Subscribe to our Premium Newsletter for insider analysis, locker room insights, and early access to our upcoming podcast featuring the voices that matter most in Minnesota sports.
Bad Dawg Sports LLC – Bringing sports to the world, one authentic story at a time.
| Follow @jj_pavlick | Visit bad-dawgsports.com
Discover more from Bad Dawg Sports - Global Sports Coverage & Analysis
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
