Jackson’s meniscus injury puts Minnesota’s left-side protection in focus

Minnesota’s protection plan faces a lasting change after Monday imaging confirmed a torn meniscus for starting left guard Donovan Jackson. The Vikings say he will need surgery, and Kevin O’Connell said the early prognosis would likely end his regular season.

Joe Huber stepped in against Miami on Sunday. O’Connell’s Monday assessment put the former undrafted rookie in the immediate replacement conversation, with the coach describing high expectations for his performance. Minnesota also has uncertainty at left tackle: Christian Darrisaw is in concussion protocol after leaving the same game.

Huber joined Minnesota in 2025 as an undrafted rookie. O’Connell praised his physical play and preparation, including the time he has spent working at center and with Blake Brandel. The coach said that experience has broadened Huber’s ability to contribute at multiple positions.

The Vikings’ Monday report, citing Pro Football Focus, said Huber did not allow a sack or quarterback hit in 71 snaps against Miami. Ryan Van Demark likewise was not assessed with allowing a sack or hit in his 36 snaps. Those figures describe Sunday’s performance; they do not settle the next starting lineup.

Darrisaw initially exited with a neck injury, returned, then left again after a different play and entered concussion protocol. O’Connell said the team was working through the initial stages and would provide updates during the week. His availability remains unresolved.

Center Michael Jurgens and tight end Ben Yurosek, both on injured reserve, are expected to begin practicing this week and be evaluated. That is a practice plan, not an announcement that either player has been activated.

For managers evaluating Minnesota’s offensive players, the supported change is in the blocking personnel. Jackson faces surgery, Huber has already filled his spot, and Darrisaw’s status still needs a decision. The announcement does not establish a new target distribution or a change in workload for any skill player.

Update, Oct. 6: The Vikings officially placed Donovan Jackson on injured reserve Tuesday. The team announced the move at 5:25 p.m. Eastern, following Monday's report that his torn meniscus required surgery and was likely to end his regular season. Minnesota also signed tackle Tristan Leigh to its practice squad and released practice-squad punter Johnny Hekker, running back Devin Neal and cornerback Natrone Brooks.