Kyler Murray is officially cleared to return to the Vikings’ starting lineup for Week 3, and man, this team isn’t wasting any time getting him back on the field! Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters Monday that Murray has cleared concussion protocol and is absolutely on schedule to play against the Buccaneers. O’Connell made it clear: “Kyler has cleared the final phase of the protocol, he’s doing great, he’ll be cleared, and he will start this week against Tampa Bay.” No messing around, they want their guy back under center.
The Week 1 Scare and What’s Next
Remember that Week 1 game against the Packers? Murray went down early, trying to slide on a scramble, and it was rough. He had to leave that game after completing just 3-of-5 passes for 18 yards, and he even threw an interception. It was a brutal way to start the season, and honestly, we were all holding our breath wondering how long he’d be out. But here we are, just two weeks later, and he’s ready to roll. Getting your starting QB back this quickly after a head injury is huge, especially when you’re trying to find your rhythm early in the season.
Wentz’s Steady Hand and Murray’s Potential
While Murray was sidelined, Carson Wentz stepped up for the last two weeks, and you gotta give him credit for keeping things steady. In Sunday’s victory over the Bears, Wentz was 11-of-20 for 143 yards. Head coach O’Connell even praised how solid Wentz was as a backup, which is exactly what you want when your starter goes down. Murray’s last season with the Cardinals saw him complete 68.3 percent of his throws for 962 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions in just five games. The potential is there, it’s just about getting him consistent. On the injury front, the team also mentioned Ty Ingram-Dawkins is day-to-day with a hip issue, and Brett Thorson has a hamstring problem.
Now, it’s Kyler versus the Buccaneers. This is his chance to truly kick off his season and show everyone what he can do. Can he shake off that early rust and lead the Vikings to a big win? This is where the real work begins, and every snap matters as they look to build momentum!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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