J.J. McCarthy, Vikings Suffer Triple Loss During Steelers Game

What made matters worse for the Vikings was the toll taken on their offensive line. Right tackle Brian O’Neill left the game with a knee injury, while center Ryan Kelly was sidelined with another concussion, according to ESPN NFL reporter Adam Schefter. The latter development is particularly concerning, as it marked the second time in three games Kelly has exited with a head injury.

He was previously ruled out during Week 2’s contest against the Atlanta Falcons and missed all of Week 3 against the Cincinnati Bengals before returning on Sunday.

Kelly's setback in Dublin casts doubt on his availability going forward, as repeated concussions raise obvious long-term health concerns.

Losing both O’Neill and Kelly in the same game leaves Minnesota in a precarious position. O’Neill has been a reliable fixture on the edge, anchoring the right side of the line since 2018, while Kelly brought much-needed stability and experience to the center position. Their absence will put additional pressure on a reshuffled offensive line tasked with protecting whichever quarterback is under center — whether McCarthy returns soon from his ankle injury or Wentz continues in relief.

The timing of his injury is particularly frustrating for McCarthy, who now faces the steep learning curve of life as a starting NFL quarterback. Without O’Neill’s protection on the edge and Kelly’s presence calling out protections, the Vikings will need immediate answers to prevent the offense from stalling.

Wentz’s strong showing against the Steelers at least gives the Vikings confidence in their depth, yet the offense will need both health and continuity up front to find consistency.

The Vikings stay overseas this week to face the Cleveland Browns in London on Sunday in what will be a home game for the Browns.