Fri Sep 12 16:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Vikings Hit Hard by Injuries After Win Over Bears

**EAGAN, Minn. -** The Minnesota Vikings are celebrating a narrow 27-24 victory over the Chicago Bears, but the win came at a cost. Linebacker Blake Cashman, the team’s defensive play-caller, is out for at least a month with a hamstring injury sustained during Monday night’s game. Running back/kick returner Ty Chandler has also been placed on injured reserve with a knee injury, sidelining him for the next four games.

The injury woes don’t end there. The Vikings are closely monitoring the health of several key players ahead of their Sunday night matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Concerns surround safety Harrison Smith (personal health issue), left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee), linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (concussion protocol), cornerback Jeff Okudah (concussion protocol), tight end Josh Oliver (ankle), and center Ryan Kelly (toe). Their availability for Sunday’s game remains uncertain.

Cashman’s injury occurred while pursuing Bears quarterback Caleb Williams down the sideline. Veteran Eric Wilson is expected to step into the starting lineup in his absence. The team also promoted tight end Nick Vannett from the practice squad, potentially signaling that Oliver might be out.

In related roster moves, cornerback Tyrek Funderburk and linebacker Sione Takitaki have been added to the Vikings’ practice squad.

While the team is hopeful for a strong performance against the Falcons, the significant number of injuries poses a considerable challenge. It remains to be seen how Coach O’Connell will adjust the game plan with so many players listed as questionable.

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