The Minnesota Vikings are set to square off against the Green Bay Packers this Sunday, a showdown that feels like a must-win scenario for the Vikings if they aim to clinch the top seed in the NFC. In their clash against the Seattle Seahawks last week, the absence of defensive stalwart Harrison Smith was palpable. Smith, who had been sidelined due to a foot injury, hadn’t missed a game in nearly two seasons prior to this setback.

Earlier this week, the Vikings faithful were given a glimmer of hope when head coach Kevin O’Connell indicated that Smith was on track to make his return against the Packers. However, the optimism was somewhat dampened when the Vikings released their first injury report of the week on Wednesday. Smith was marked as DNP, or “Did Not Practice,” alongside cornerback Fabian Moreau, who also missed the session.

Another key player, Jalen Redmond, is navigating through concussion protocol and was listed as limited in practice. On a brighter note, Blake Cashman, CJ Ham, Patrick Jones II, Josh Oliver, and Ivan Pace Jr were noted as “full participants” in the simulated walkthrough. Notably, Ivan Pace Jr’s return was underscored with the activation of his 21-day practice window earlier this week, signaling potential involvement in the upcoming game.

The Vikings’ defense certainly felt the absence of Smith in their secondary during last week’s encounter with the Seahawks. Smith’s presence as a defensive anchor can’t be understated, especially with his season stats reading 79 total tackles, two interceptions, and a fumble return. His knack for pass defense shines through with nine passes defended, placing him just three shy of his personal best, tying for third-most on the team behind Byron Murphy Jr. and Cam Bynum.

As Smith’s status remains uncertain, the Vikings and their fans collectively hold their breath, hoping for a favorable update before their high-stakes contest against their storied rivals, the Packers.