Coach Kevin O’Connell Gives Update on Vikings’ LB Jordan Hicks, ‘Hospitalized’ for Compartment Syndrome Following Shin Injury

The Minnesota Vikings have suffered numerous critical injuries this NFL season. The latest name that brings crisis for the team remains the linebacker Jordan Hicks. Before that, QB sensation Kirk Cousins made it to the infirmary after tearing his ACL. With Cousins being potentially ruled out of the season, Coach Kevin O’Connell turned to backup QB Jaren Hall. Hall soon joined Cousins on the IR as he took a hit to the head and had a concussion while trying to get to the end zone on a third-and-goal play from the 4-yard line.

While the QB issue seems to be currently resolved through the entry of Joshua Dobbs into the side, they still find themselves short on personnel. With linebacker Jordan Hicks’ latest injury update coming in, matters look hardly at ease for the Vikings amidst a crucial stage of the season coming up.

From gridiron glory to hospital bed: The battle for Jordan Hicks

Even with a shin setback sidelining Jordan Hicks during Sunday’s showdown with the Saints, he pulled off a gridiron encore. Yet, this new unexpected twist landed him in the hospital, turning post-game celebrations into a Monday afternoon staycation. NFL sleuth Kevin Seifert spilled the beans on ‘X,’ dishing the details with the caption, “Vikings LB Jordan Hicks developed compartment syndrome yesterday after bruising his shin, per coach Kevin O’Connell.”

He added about the football player being taken to a local hospital immediately, followed by a routine procedure. However, concern poured in as the star remains hospitalized at the moment for the sake of “Precaution.” Adding fuel to the issues, the head coach hinted at Ivan Pace stepping into Hicks’ cleats for defensive play calls against the Broncos.

The game plan shuffle is still in progress, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats. Not the best news for Hicks, who was rocking every snap for five straight weeks, playing at a level that had the Vikings cheering louder than a touchdown at Lambeau. Now, everyone is left wondering if the Broncos will face the wrath of Ivan Pace and witness a Hicks-less Vikings defense.

Hamstrung no more: Vikings tease Justin Jefferson’s return

Jordan Hicks is taking a timeout from this Sunday’s showdown against the Broncos. Coach O’Connell is likely playing it cool, keeping the decision playbook under wraps. Will it be a quick one-week breather or a longer sideline stint? The bye on the horizon adds some strategic spice as they could easily play it safe and let Hicks rest up until they face the Raiders on December 10th.

Read More: NFL Week 11 Action: Five Games You Shouldn’t Miss Before Thanksgiving Week, Which One Is Your Pick?

Hicks, the defensive maestro and team captain, has been the heartbeat of every game this season, clocking in at a whopping 98% of defensive snaps by Week 10. His absence is a hit harder than a linebacker collision, leaving fans wondering how the Vikings will fill the void, though, eyes remain on Ivan Pace taking up the prestigious position.

The head honcho also spilled the beans on Justin Jefferson’s rehab hustle, teasing us with the prospect of him hitting the field again. The receiver has been sidelined since Week 5 with a pesky right hamstring issue. But the Vikings are ready to ‘ramp up’ his practice game this week. The 21-day practice window is open, signaling Jefferson could make a grand return to the 53-man roster anytime soon. However, O’Connell seems to have one rule set – no rushing the star receiver back onto the gridiron.

Watch This Story: Aaron Rodgers Reveals Bold Goal for Timely Comeback From Injury