Not only Rondale Moore: Minnesota Vikings lose another player after first preseason game against Texans

The Minnesota Vikings entered NFL training camp with a lot to prove. Although JJ McCarthy has already demonstrated his talent on the field, head coach Kevin O’Connell faces challenges that could change the team’s plans. During the game against the Houston Texans, wide receiver Rondale Moore abandoned the game with a serious injury. Unfortunately, he was not the only one, as another significant injury to a team player has been confirmed.

After the game, Kevin O’Connell announced that Rondale Moore sustained a significant knee injury. Although the exact severity remains uncertain pending an MRI scan, O’Connell described the situation as ‘heartbreaking.’ This injury marks another setback for Moore, who missed much of last season due to a similar knee issue.

Rondale’s injury may have dominated the headlines, but Vikings head coach added another concern to the list: undrafted rookie center Zeke Correll sustained a right ankle fracture in the fourth quarter. To maintain its competitive edge, the team will likely look to bolster its roster with an additional center, as Correll was third in line behind Ryan Kelly and Michael Jurgens.

Minnesota Vikings get key update on Justin Jefferson ahead of upcoming games

Despite some setbacks, there is a silver lining for the Vikings as wide receiver Justin Jefferson provided an optimistic update on his injury postgame. “It’s coming along… Just every single day, just working on it. Working on the strength. Working on the mobility. … I’m feeling pretty good right now. Just inching my way every single day,“ he said.

Kahlef Hailassie #25 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates an interception in the fourth quarter during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 9, 2025.

While Jefferson is not expected to participate in team practices this week, reports indicate a potential return on September 8 for the matchup against the Chicago Bears. This timeline suggests that his injury might not sideline him for much of the season, alleviating fans’ worst fears.

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NFL News: J.J. McCarthy turns heads with major admission after preseason debut with Vikings

What’s next for the Minnesota Vikings ahead of the 2025 NFL regular season kickoff?

Following their triumph over the Houston Texans, Kevin O’Connell’s Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for two significant matchups before the start of the 2025 NFL regular season. They will host the New England Patriots on August 16 at U.S. Bank Stadium. Then, they will wrap up their preseason campaign against the Tennessee Titans on August 22 at Nissan Stadium.