The Minnesota Vikings will play on Sunday afternoon against the Green Bay Packers, in a game they probably have to win, if they want to keep their hopes alive for the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
Last week, against the Seattle Seahawks, Harrison Smith missed his first game in nearly two seasons, with a foot injury. Earlier this week, head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters that Smith was expected back vs the Packers.
Early Minnesota Vikings Injury Report – Week 17
But when the first Minnesota Vikings injury report (simulated) of the week dropped Wednesday afternoon, Harry the Hitman was listed as a DNP “Did Not Practice”, along with cornerback Fabian Moreau.
Jalen Redmond, who’s in concussion protocol, was limited. Also listed on the walkthrough injury report as “full participants”, were Blake Cashman, CJ Ham, Patrick Jones II, Josh Oliver and Ivan Pace Jr, whose 21-day practice window was activated earlier this week.
Wednesday's #Vikings injury report.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 25, 2024
The team held a walkthrough today and the practice report is an estimation. pic.twitter.com/4JrHYKNskz
The Minnesota Vikings passing defense struggled last week against the Seattle Seahawks, without Harrison Smith roaming the secondary. After KOC spoke on Monday, fans breathed a sigh of relief. But it’s clear he is not out of the woods just yet.
Related: Week 16 PFF Grades: Minnesota Vikings’ Top Performers and Key Takeaways
Smith has 79 total tackles on the season, to go with two interceptions and one fumble return. His 9 passes defended are just three short of his career high and tied for third most on the team, behind only Byron Murphy Jr and Cam Bynum.