Minnesota Vikings Face Uncertainty with Linebackers Ahead of Critical Matchup against Jacksonville Jaguars
ICARO Media Group
**Vikings Linebackers Remain Questionable for Game Against Jaguars**
The Minnesota Vikings are facing a critical matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday, and the availability of key players remains uncertain. Linebacker Blake Cashman, who has been sidelined for the last three games due to a toe injury, practiced fully on Friday but is still listed as questionable. If he returns, Cashman is expected to reclaim his role as the Vikings' No. 1 linebacker and assume green dot duties.
Cashman had a stellar start to the season, making his absence felt during the team’s recent losses to the Lions and Rams. The Vikings' defensive coordinator, Brian Flores, is hopeful that Cashman will be available for the Jacksonville game, and his full participation in Friday's practice is a positive sign.
Another player dealing with injuries is second-year linebacker Ivan Pace Jr., who has been filling in for Cashman over the past few weeks. Pace, suffering from a knee injury, was able to practice on Thursday and Friday after missing Wednesday's session. His status is also listed as questionable. If Pace or Cashman misses the game, linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill is expected to see increased playing time.
The Vikings' rookie outside linebacker Gabe Murphy, who also has a knee injury, remains on injured reserve but has started practicing again. Murphy, an undrafted rookie from UCLA, showed promise during training camp and could soon make his NFL debut, potentially entering the rotation later this season.
For the Jaguars, the situation is similarly precarious. Starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence is questionable with a shoulder injury, and reports from the NFL Network and comments from head coach Doug Pederson indicate he is unlikely to play. Other key players for Jacksonville, including wide receivers Brian Thomas Jr. and Gabe Davis, are also listed as questionable, while starting left guard Ezra Cleveland, a former Viking, has been ruled out.
As both teams grapple with these uncertainties, their final roster decisions could play a pivotal role in the outcome of Sunday’s game.