The Minnesota Vikings could have a fascinating quarterback decision on their hands heading into their Week 2 matchup against the Chicago Bears. Kyler Murray continues to make progress through the NFL’s concussion protocol, and the latest update indicates he did more in practice Thursday than he did Wednesday.
Murray making progress toward potential return
Murray suffered a concussion during Minnesota’s Week 1 comeback victory over the Green Bay Packers, forcing him out after just 11 offensive snaps. Carson Wentz stepped in and helped the Vikings rally from a 22-10 deficit, throwing three touchdown passes in the 39-22 victory.
Murray returned to practice Wednesday on a limited basis and remained limited Thursday. While that does not mean he has been cleared, the progression is encouraging as the quarterback works through the league’s concussion protocol.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Murray did more during Thursday’s practice than he did Wednesday. The report also indicates that the Vikings’ decision may not simply come down to whether Murray is medically cleared.
Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell previously indicated that Friday would be an important checkpoint for Murray’s potential availability Sunday.
Vikings face difficult decision at quarterback
If Murray clears the concussion protocol, Minnesota will then have to decide whether to immediately put its starting quarterback back into the lineup or give him another week to recover.
That creates an unusual situation for the Vikings. Murray could potentially be medically cleared but still sit out Sunday’s game, particularly given the nature of the injury and how recently it occurred. Graziano reported that Minnesota will make that decision once Murray receives clearance.
If the Vikings decide to hold Murray out, Wentz would get the start against Chicago. He already demonstrated that he can operate the offense after taking over in Week 1, completing 12 of 19 passes for 133 yards and three touchdowns.
For now, Murray’s status remains unresolved. Friday’s practice and the final steps of the concussion protocol should provide the next major update, but Minnesota could ultimately have a decision to make even if Murray receives medical clearance.
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