Who has been ruled out for Week 16 between the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions and whose status in danger heading into the Sunday, Dec. 23 contest?
Week 16 of the 2018 NFL season has arrived and the Minnesota Vikings face off against a division opponent in an important game which could help determine playoff positioning for the two Wild Card spots.
Meanwhile, the Lions may not be playing for the postseason, but they have plenty of pride to play for. Being able to contribute to Minnesota missing the playoffs would be a bit of a feather in the cap for Detroit.
The game will be decided on the field, with some players either being ruled out already or in danger of missing the game. Here is the full injury report as shared on the official Vikings website.
Minnesota Vikings
OUT
- Eric Kendricks, linebacker – hamstring
DOUBTFUL
- – none –
QUESTIONABLE
- – none –
The Vikings injury report is a short one, but it’s quite concise and impactful. Kendricks being out of action isn’t a good sign for Minnesota since he leads the team in tackles through the first 15 weeks of the season.
However, the removal of every other player’s status for the week is a positive thing. With the rest of the team looking healthy, the remaining individuals on the team’s roster will be ready for action in an important game.
Detroit Lions
OUT
- Bruce Ellington, wide receiver – hamstring
- Charles Washington, safety – hamstring
DOUBTFUL
- – none –
QUESTIONABLE
- Jamal Agnew, cornerback – knee
- LeGarrette Blount, running back – calf
- Kenny Golladay, wide receiver – chest
- Damon Harrison, defensive tackle – ankle
- Devon Kennard, linebacker – hip
- Matthew Stafford, quarterback – back
Hamstrings seem to be an issue this week, with all three players ruled out dealing with their hammies. However, neither of the Lions who won’t be playing were starters, meaning Detroit could have all their starters ready to roll for Sunday.
Detroit would really miss several of the questionable players if they are unable to go. Blount, Golladay, Harrison, Kennard, and Stafford are all key contributors and should be considered players to watch as the Week 16 game approaches.
How much will the Minnesota Vikings miss the presence of linebacker Eric Kendricks in Week 16? And will the Detroit Lions be able to exploit the team in his absence? Let us know what you think in the comments section!