For the Detroit Lions, Christmas Eve was historic as the team won its first divisional championship since 1993. Sadly, it came at the expense of the Minnesota Vikings, who lost 30-24 at U.S. Bank Stadium due to a devastation caused by turnover and injuries.
With just two games remaining in the regular season, both against NFC North opponents (the Green Bay Packers in Week 17 and the Lions in the season finale), they are eliminated from the NFC playoff picture. With all the injuries they sustained on Sunday, it will be considerably more difficult for them to climb back into one of the final two wild card positions.
The most recent development regarding a vital defensive player for the Vikings will depress supporters even more. On Christmas morning, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said, “OLB D.J. Wonnum, in the midst of a career year with 62 tackles and 8 sacks, suffered a partially torn quad, source said, an indication he’s played his last down this season.” It’s serious, as coach Kevin O’Connell noted, adding, ‘You can see what D.J. represents to our squad.'”
The squad would undoubtedly be in a very bad situation for the last two weeks of the 2023–24 season if the 26-year-old outside linebacker were to miss the remainder of the campaign. Prior to a New Year’s Eve matchup with the Packers, others must step up because he is a key component of Minnesota’s much-improved defensive attack.
Apart from D.J. Wonnum, injuries were also sustained by Pro Bowl tight end T.J. Hockenson and rookie sensation Jordan Addison against Detroit. As further details become available, ClutchPoints will keep you informed about their status.
