Vikings’ O’Connell: No Blame on Packers for Hit That Gave Murray Concussio
Kyler Murray’s Vikings debut cut short by concussion (0:31)
EAGAN, Minn. — Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell described the play that gave QB Kyler Murray a concussion as “violent and physical” but said Monday there was nothing improper about it — and he holds no Packers players at fault.
“Had he clearly slid headfirst and signaled he was giving himself up, that’s a different story,” O’Connell explained. “But in this case, I don’t place blame on anyone.”
The incident happened on the Vikings’ 11th offensive play during Sunday’s 39-22 home win over Green Bay. On a third-down scramble, Murray was met by Packers defenders Lukas Van Ness and Javon Bullard just as he began to go down. Van Ness’s contact shifted his helmet, and Bullard then struck his head with his shoulder and forearm.
Murray lay still briefly; teammates noted he showed a stiff “fencing” posture, a typical sign of immediate brain impact, before walking off under his own power. He has entered concussion protocol but remained in good spirits, interacting with teammates and coaches postgame. As of Monday, O’Connell reported Murray felt “quite well,” took part in team meetings, and reviewed game footage — with no ruling him out for Week 2 at Chicago; status will be reassessed daily.
If Murray isn’t cleared, Carson Wentz — who threw three TDs versus Green Bay — will start, with J.J. McCarthy as backup; Max Brosmer is on the practice squad.
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