Vikings Receive Positive News on $33 Million All-Pro Duo and Starting LT
As the Minnesota Vikings prepare for their Week 3 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, they’re heading into the game without their starting quarterback and top center, among other key players. However, the team is set to welcome back two important figures this week.
Starting left tackle Christian Darrisaw and All-Pro safety Harrison Smith are expected to make their season debuts in Week 3.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on September 20 that both Darrisaw (knee) and Smith (illness) are anticipated to take the field on Sunday. Though both players are likely to rotate in and out, they are expected to start the game.
This marks a much-needed boost for the Vikings, who are dealing with a number of challenges heading into Week 3.
Vikings All-Pro Defender Returns to Action
In addition to Darrisaw and Smith, the Vikings are also set to get outside linebacker and 2024 Second Team All-Pro Andrew Van Ginkel back for the game against the Bengals.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on September 20 that Van Ginkel, along with Darrisaw and Smith, will be available for Week 3, at least in a limited role. Van Ginkel, who was also a Pro Bowler in 2024, had a solid first season with the Vikings.
Despite being listed as “questionable” on the injury report, Van Ginkel’s return adds another layer of strength to the Vikings’ roster as they take on the Bengals.
Van Ginkel is under contract through 2026, with a one-year, $23 million extension set to kick in next season.
With key players like Darrisaw, Smith, and Van Ginkel returning, the Vikings are in better shape than expected, especially given the quarterback uncertainty leading into the game.
Jordan Addison’s Return Coming Soon
Adding to the optimism, wide receiver Jordan Addison, who is coming off a suspension, will be eligible to play again in Week 4.
Harrison Smith Set for 2025 Debut
Harrison Smith, a First Team All-Pro in 2017, is entering his 14th NFL season. At 36 years old, he has remained a key contributor for the Vikings in recent years. Despite missing the preseason and training camp due to illness, Smith has been highly durable, missing no more than two games per season since 2015.
While the details of his illness are undisclosed, Smith’s return will provide much-needed stability for a revamped Vikings secondary, which features two new cornerbacks and a fresh face at safety.
The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported earlier that, “barring a last-minute setback,” Smith is expected to make his debut in Week 3, with Rapoport’s confirmation further bolstering the team’s confidence heading into the Bengals game.
Smith’s one-year, $10.2 million deal, combined with the return of other high-value players, highlights the caliber of talent that will be on the field for the Vikings in Week 3, making it a crucial week for the team.
Christian Darrisaw’s Return Brings Relief for Carson Wentz
No one on the Vikings’ roster will appreciate Darrisaw’s return more than quarterback Carson Wentz. With veteran Justin Skule filling in for Darrisaw, Skule suffered an injury in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons, leaving him out for Week 3.
Although Wentz remains mobile in his 10th NFL season, it’s undoubtedly better to have a first-round talent like Darrisaw protecting his blindside instead of the Vikings’ current backups.
Though the Bengals’ pass rush has been underwhelming, with just three sacks in two games, the Vikings’ current situation makes Darrisaw’s return all the more important. With Wentz joining the team just a month ago, having as many reliable starters in place as possible will be crucial for the Vikings’ success in Week 3.
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