Vikings QB Sam Darnold (foot) off injury report, good to go vs. Bears
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold is officially off the injury report and will start Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears, the team announced Friday.
Darnold, who missed last week’s game against the Detroit Lions with a high ankle sprain, practiced fully all week and said he feels “100 percent” healthy.
“I’m excited to get back out there and play,” Darnold said. “I think I’m in a good place mentally and physically, and I’m ready to go.”
The Vikings (10-3) are currently in first place in the NFC North, and a win over the Bears (3-10) would clinch a playoff berth for Minnesota.
Darnold has been a key part of the Vikings’ success this season, completing 64.5 percent of his passes for 2,647 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He has also rushed for 184 yards and two touchdowns.
With Darnold back in the lineup, the Vikings’ offense should get a boost. The Vikings have struggled to score points in recent weeks, averaging just 17.7 points per game over their last four games.
The Bears’ defense has also been struggling lately, allowing an average of 27.3 points per game over their last four games.
The Vikings are favored by 6.5 points in Sunday’s game, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. The over/under for the game is 43.5 points.
Darnold’s injury history
Darnold has a history of foot injuries. He missed three games last season with a foot injury, and he also missed the final two games of the 2020 season with a foot injury.
Darnold said he is confident that he will be able to stay healthy for the rest of the season.
“I’m feeling good,” Darnold said. “I’m working hard in the weight room and in the training room to make sure that I’m doing everything I can to stay healthy.”
What Darnold’s return means for the Vikings
Darnold’s return is a big boost for the Vikings’ offense. He is a more experienced and talented quarterback than backup Nick Mullens, and he gives the Vikings a better chance to win games.
With Darnold back in the lineup, the Vikings should be able to score more points and win more games. They are currently in a good position to make a playoff run, and Darnold’s return could help them make a deep run into the playoffs.
Conclusion
Sam Darnold is officially off the injury report and will start Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. Darnold’s return is a big boost for the Vikings’ offense, and it should help them win more games and make a playoff run.