The Minnesota Vikings' perfect start to the season finally came to an end on Sunday as the team suffered its first loss of this season at the hands of the Detroit Lions. However, the disappointing result was not the only concern for head coach Kevin O'Connell, as quarterback Kyler Murray also dealt with a hamstring issue late in the game.
According to The Athletic's Alec Lewis, O'Connell revealed after the matchup that Murray experienced hamstring tightness during the fourth quarter.
“Vikings HC Kevin O’Connell says CB Isaiah Rodgers had an ankle sprain. QB Kyler Murray had hamstring tightness but returned, per KOC,” the report read.
Murray headed to the sideline medical tent after throwing a touchdown pass with 8:44 remaining in the fourth quarter. However, the quarterback was able to return to the field for Minnesota's following offensive possession.
The injury update comes after Murray delivered a mixed performance against Detroit, completing 17 of 29 passes for 210 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. He also contributed 35 rushing yards on four carries, yet his efforts ultimately could not prevent Minnesota from suffering its first loss.
However, Murray indicated that the hamstring tightness did not significantly affect his performance during the closing stages of the game. The quarterback added that the medical staff would take a closer look at the issue before determining whether any additional treatment would be necessary.
Article Continues Below“We'll look at it, obviously, and do what we need to do,” Murray said.
The loss dropped Minnesota to 6-1, bringing its unbeaten start to the season to an end. Meanwhile, Detroit improved to 5-2 with the victory.
Minnesota will now have to closely monitor Murray's hamstring ahead of its upcoming matchup against the Buffalo Bills. The quarterback played a significant role in the Vikings' strong start to the season, and neither the team nor its fans will want to see him miss even a single game because of the injury.