Latest Vikings injury update just made Bijan Robinson a potential nightmare

When the Minnesota Vikings open US Bank Stadium for the first time this season, on Sunday night, there are of course a few storylines to watch against the Atlanta Falcons. This one, though, isn't about former Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins who is now the backup in Atlanta.

Instead, it's about a Vikings injury update that is going to make life very difficult on the Vikings defense when it comes to stopping running back Bijan Robinson. Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, Minnesota will be without outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel on Sunday night.

The Vikings will also be without cornerback Jeff Okudah and offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw.

Van Ginkel is going to miss this game due to being unable to pass through concussion protocol, which he entered following last week's Monday Night Football win over the Chicago Bears. Unfortunately, this is already Van Ginkel's second injury scare of the fall.

Stopping Bijan Robinson just got a lot harder for Brian Flores and the Vikings defense

Last week against the Bears, Van Ginkel ended the game with Minnesota's third-best grade against the pass, per Pro Football Focus.

Why does that matter even more against a back like Robinson? Take a look at the Falcons' third play from scrimmage in Week 1.

Last week, Robinson was the Falcons' leading receiver with six receptions that went for 100 yards and that 50-yard score. A season ago, Robinson caught 61 passes. Having a whopping six in his first game of the year is quite the turn of events.

Obviously, Robinson will have a hard time pacing the entire season like that. But, it's clear that this Falcons offense wants to get him the football more than just via your standard handoff.

Van Ginkel is a fan favorite, and for good reason. He's as disruptive as any Vikings defender on any given down. Without him against Atlanta, the Vikes will see a whole lot more of second-year pro Dallas Turner who steps into those shoes.

Hopefully, Van Ginkel is able to rest up and pass through protocol just fine ahead of Minnesota's Week 3 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals.