The Thursday injury report for the Minnesota Vikings brings a mix of positive and concerning updates:
- TE Josh Oliver (wrist/ankle): Did not practice
- DE Jonathan Bullard (toe): Full participation
- QB Sam Darnold (foot): Full participation
- RB Aaron Jones (ribs): Full participation
- OLB Gabe Murphy (knee): Full participation
- TE Nick Muse (hand): Full participation
While most players were able to practice fully, the absence of Josh Oliver is the most concerning development.
This is a tough blow for the Vikings, as Josh Oliver has played a pivotal role in their success over the first 10 games of the season. Not only has he been an outstanding blocker, but he has also developed into the reliable pass catcher that the Jacksonville Jaguars had hoped for when they drafted him in 2019 out of San Jose State.
The positive news for the Vikings is that both Jonathan Bullard and Sam Darnold were full participants in practice, along with Nick Muse, who could be called upon to step in for Oliver on Sunday.
For the Bears, the injury report is largely unchanged from yesterday:
- OT Kiran Amegadjie (calf): Did not practice
- OG Ryan Bates (concussion): Did not practice
- DB Elijah Hicks (ankle): Did not practice
- TE Marcedes Lewis (rest): Did not practice
- RB D’Andre Swift (groin): Limited participation
- OL Teven Jenkins (ankle): Full participation
The key concern for the Bears is D’Andre Swift, who was limited in practice, which could affect his availability for Sunday. However, Teven Jenkins being a full participant is encouraging. Friday’s practice will provide a clearer picture for both teams ahead of Sunday’s game.