Minnesota Vikings’ Injury Report: Key Players Out for Monday’s Game Against the Rams

The Minnesota Vikings are facing a challenging situation heading into their Monday night game against the Los Angeles Rams, as the final injury report reveals several key players who will be unavailable or questionable for the matchup. The team is already dealing with a tough road game, and these injuries will only add to the difficulty.

Pat Jones II Out Again with Knee Injury

One of the major setbacks for the Vikings is the continued absence of outside linebacker Pat Jones II, who will miss his second consecutive game due to a knee injury. Jones was injured after a low block from Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft in a previous game. This injury is particularly concerning, as Jones has been dealing with knee issues for the past few months, including missing a game against the Atlanta Falcons earlier in the season.

With Jones sidelined, rookie Gabe Murphy is expected to step up in his place, similar to how Murphy was elevated from the practice squad to play against the Falcons. While it’s never ideal to lose a starter, the Vikings will need Murphy to rise to the occasion to fill the void left by Jones’ absence.

Cam Akers and Taki Taimañi’s Status Uncertain

Running back Cam Akers is also listed as questionable for the game due to an illness that has reportedly been spreading around the Vikings’ facility. The illness caused backup running back Ty Chandler to miss practice on Friday, and even quarterback J.J. McCarthy was sent home due to symptoms. Akers’ status remains uncertain, and the team will need to assess his condition before making a final decision. His absence would be another blow to an already banged-up roster.

As for nose tackle Taki Taimañi, the Vikings have until Monday to activate him from his 21-day practice window. Taimañi has been dealing with an ankle injury, and while there’s a good chance he will be activated, the team is taking a cautious approach. The Vikings are currently without a backup nose tackle, so his activation would be crucial. However, even with three consecutive days of full participation in practice, it’s unclear if Taimañi will be fully ready to contribute on game day.

Rams Enter the Game Healthier Than Earlier in the Season

On the other side of the field, the Los Angeles Rams are entering the game significantly healthier than when these two teams last faced off in Week 8. This time around, the Rams have only two players on their injury report: right tackle Rob Havenstein and tight end Hunter Long. However, both players were removed from the injury report, meaning they will be available for Monday’s game.

What to Expect for Monday’s Game

Despite the Vikings’ injury challenges, they will still be focused on putting up a strong performance against the Rams. With key players like Pat Jones II, Cam Akers, and Taki Taimañi dealing with injuries, the team will need to rely on depth and resilience to overcome these obstacles.

The game will kick off at 7 p.m. CT on Monday, and both teams will be eager to secure a win as the playoffs loom on the horizon. It’s shaping up to be a crucial and intense matchup, but the Vikings will have their work cut out for them as they fight through injuries and a tough opponent on the road.