The Minnesota Vikings leaned on their first-class defense to outlast the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a penalty-filled NFC matchup on Sunday afternoon, and based on their current health, their team identity could remain lopsided. Justin Jefferson suffered an ankle injury, forcing quarterback Kyler Murray into a potentially trying situation. Fortunately, it appears the superstar wide receiver has avoided disaster. But veteran tight end Josh Oliver does not appear so lucky.
The 2019 third-round draft pick is feared to have torn his biceps during the Vikings' 23-16 Week 3 win, per Ian Rapoport of ESPN and NFL Network. He will undergo an MRI to confirm Minnesota's concern, and if testing indeed brings bad news, then Oliver will be sidelined indefinitely.
The 29-year-old is not a pass-catching machine — three receptions on five targets for 46 yards in three games this season — but he is a solid run-blocker and a consistent presence in the offense. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell is a creative play-caller who thrives on details and deception. Losing a 6-foot-5, 264-pound starter like Oliver for a significant length of time could greatly change how this squad attacks defenses.
O'Connell is nothing if not adaptable, however. Minnesota has been forced to adjust its offensive game plan plenty over the years, whether it be due to injuries or performance. The Vikings will need to make more tweaks following the Josh Oliver news, but thankfully for them, they can do so with a 3-0 cushion.
Sunday's home game versus the Miami Dolphins (0-3) is coming at the right time.