The Minnesota Vikings are set to host the Atlanta Falcons in a highly anticipated Sunday Night Football clash in Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:20 p.m. (CT) at U.S. Bank Stadium. However, the Vikings are facing some injury challenges that could impact their performance.
Key Vikings Players Sidelined
Head Coach Kevin O'Connell announced that linebacker Blake Cashman (hamstring) and running back Ty Chandler (knee) will be sidelined for some time. Furthermore, outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel and cornerback Jeff Okudah are currently in concussion protocol, adding to the team's injury woes.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that Cashman is expected to miss a few weeks due to his hamstring injury, while Van Ginkel's status remains uncertain as he navigates the concussion protocol. These absences could significantly impact the Vikings' defensive capabilities.
Impact on the Vikings' Defense
Blake Cashman had a strong Week 1 performance, recording two hurries and three tackles, earning a 64.2 defense grade from Pro Football Focus. Last season, he tallied 4.5 sacks and 44 tackles, showcasing his importance to the Vikings' defense, especially his run defense grade of 86.2. Andrew Van Ginkel, prior to entering concussion protocol, recorded one hurry, one batted pass, three tackles, and a pass breakup in Week 1. Last season he recorded 11.5 sacks and two interceptions.
The Falcons, who struggled to establish their running game against Tampa Bay in Week 1, will look to exploit the Vikings' weakened linebacker corps. Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier combined for a mere 48 yards on 22 carries (2.18 yards per carry) in their previous game. With Cashman out, Atlanta may find more opportunities to run the ball effectively.
Falcons Prepare for Vikings' Defense
Falcons coach Raheem Morris acknowledged the challenges posed by the Vikings' defense, stating, "They've got people all across the board that present different challenges, and you've got to be ready to deal with those guys. They're all interchangeable pieces, so to speak, and you've got to try to figure out that math as you go."
The Vikings' defense demonstrated its potential by holding the Bears to just seven offensive points in the second half of their Week 1 matchup. However, missing two key linebackers could create vulnerabilities that the Falcons will aim to exploit in their Sunday Night Football showdown.