The Minnesota Vikings‘ defense are likely to receive a boost for their Week 9 game against the Detroit Lions. On October 29, the Vikings issued their injury report for Week 9, and one of the positives for this week was that linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel has been fully practicing after dealing with a neck injury.
Van Ginkel has not played for Minnesota since Week 3, and while it’s a positive sign that he’s participating, that doesn’t mean the Vikings are ready to put him out on the field, per Kevin Seifert of ESPN.
Neck and head injuries are always a delicate situation. As a result, it’s no surprise that Minnesota will take its time and have extra precaution with the player to ensure that he’s 100 percent ready to return.
On October 29, Van Ginkel spoke with reporters to provide an injury update ahead of the Lions game.
“It’s just been a long process, and I’ve been careful with how I’ve been able to handle this, going through the motions of progressing well so I can get back on the field and help this team win,” Van Ginkel said.
“… I feel really good with where I’m at. I’ve been able to practice in a limited role the past couple weeks and have been able to ramp it up, get back on the field, and take some team reps. It’s been a great progression.”
Will Andrew Van Ginkel Play in Vikings-Lions Game?
Although Minnesota are being cautious with the player, Van Ginkel isn’t hiding that he wants to play in a key game against the Lions as the Vikings need to get a run to get themselves back in the NFC playoff picture.
“That’s the goal,” Van Ginkel added about playing against the Lions. “I’m listening to the training staff and everything they have. They’re preparing me well, and there are steps to return back to play, and that’s the goal… I’ve never really had neck issues that have popped up. I’ve had things here and there, but not to this extent.”
The Vikings Are Expected to Have Their Starting QB Back
While Van Ginkel’s status is unknown, one player who is likely to play is quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is returning from an injury of his own. McCarthy, sidelined since Week 2 with a high ankle sprain, is expected to suit up on November 2 against the Lions.
Before the second-year quarterback’s return, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell shared insights on McCarthy’s current mindset.
“J.J. is in a good spot,” O’Connell told KFAN’s Paul Allen. “He had some really good work [on October 27] and should get a full week of preparation. He finally feels truly ready to go be himself—not just in his ability to function at the position, but also in the things J.J.
“McCarthy can bring to our offense: his mobility and his ability to protect himself, which comes from playing with great timing and rhythm from the pocket. He also has the ability to create and do some things off the schedule of the play.”
Minnesota desperately need a win after falling to 3-4, and a loss against the Lions could dampen their hopes of making the playoffs this season.
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