Vikings Injuries Pile Up in Joint Practice with Browns

By Mark Craig

Star Tribune

BEREA, OHIO – The Minnesota Vikings faced a challenging day during their joint practice session with the Cleveland Browns, as they endured a series of unfortunate injuries to key players. The most significant blow came with the season-ending knee injury to rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Adding to their woes, the team lost their No. 2 receiver, Jordan Addison, to a left ankle injury early in the practice session.

Injury Woes for the Vikings

Jordan Addison’s Setback

Jordan Addison’s injury occurred shortly after the start of the practice session. According to Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell, Addison is unlikely to participate in Thursday’s practice. “We’re going to get [an MRI], but I think he’s going to be all right,” O’Connell mentioned, expressing cautious optimism about Addison’s condition.

Later in the day, Addison was seen on crutches at the team hotel, suggesting his preseason might be over. The injury happened when Addison was tightly covered near the sideline, and an errant throw by Sam Darnold resulted in Addison stumbling and eventually requiring assistance from a cart to leave the field.

Other Injuries

Addison wasn’t the only Vikings receiver to suffer an injury during the practice session. Thayer Thomas, who spent the last season on the Vikings practice squad, was also hurt. Thomas was injured on a pass intercepted and returned for a touchdown by Cleveland cornerback Myles Harden. Coach O’Connell instructed Thomas to remain down until the trainers could assess his condition. “It was a ball a little bit behind him as he was crossing the field, and he might have hit his head or his neck,” O’Connell explained, emphasizing the need for caution.

Despite these setbacks, Thomas managed to leave the field under his own power. His availability for the upcoming practice remains uncertain.

Cleveland Browns’ Dominance

Defensive Prowess

The Cleveland Browns’ defense dominated the Vikings’ offense throughout the practice session. Cleveland’s defenders intercepted passes, broke up plays, and applied consistent pressure on the quarterbacks. They also maintained a high level of energy and enthusiasm, as noted by Cleveland safety Juan Thornhill, who remarked, “We just had more energy than they did.”

Key Contributors

Former Vikings edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, despite being sidelined with a knee injury, was one of the loudest motivators on the sideline. Other former Vikings players, including Dalvin Tomlinson and Jordan Hicks, also missed the practice due to injuries.

One of the standout performances came from Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Garrett showcased his power and speed, getting past Vikings left tackle Christian Darrisaw for multiple would-be sacks. Garrett’s pressure also led to a pick-six on a pass intended for Justin Jefferson.

Vikings’ Defensive Highlights

Strong Defensive Response

While the Vikings’ offense struggled, their defense put on an impressive display. Under the guidance of coordinator Brian Flores, the defense managed to unsettle Cleveland quarterback Deshaun Watson. The Browns committed several presnap penalties and allowed significant pressure on their quarterback. Defenders Brian Cashman, Jonathan Greenard, and Harrison Phillips were among those who recorded would-be sacks.

Takeaways and Pressure

Safety Cam Bynum highlighted the defense’s achievements, stating, “It was a good practice for the defense. We were able to turn the ball over a few times. Fumbles. A pick. We were sending a lot of pressure and making sure the quarterback wasn’t comfortable.” The Vikings’ defense’s ability to create turnovers and maintain pressure was a positive takeaway from an otherwise challenging day.

FAQs

How long will Jordan Addison be out?

Jordan Addison’s exact recovery timeline is uncertain, pending further medical evaluation. However, his preseason is likely over.

What happened to Thayer Thomas?

Thayer Thomas suffered an injury during practice but managed to leave the field under his own power. His availability for future practices remains uncertain.

How did the Browns’ defense perform?

The Cleveland Browns’ defense dominated the Vikings’ offense, intercepting passes, breaking up plays, and applying consistent pressure on the quarterbacks.

Who stood out in the Vikings’ defense?

Several Vikings defenders, including Brian Cashman, Jonathan Greenard, and Harrison Phillips, recorded would-be sacks and contributed to a strong defensive performance.

How did Myles Garrett perform against the Vikings?

Myles Garrett showcased his power and speed, getting past Vikings left tackle Christian Darrisaw for multiple would-be sacks and contributing to a pick-six.

Conclusion

The joint practice session between the Minnesota Vikings and the Cleveland Browns was marked by significant injuries and dominant defensive performances. The Vikings faced setbacks with injuries to key players like Jordan Addison and Thayer Thomas, while the Browns’ defense showcased their prowess. Despite these challenges, the Vikings’ defense managed to put on an impressive display, creating turnovers and maintaining pressure on the Browns’ offense. As both teams continue their preparations, the focus will be on recovery and refining their strategies for the upcoming season.