Vikings defense facing concerning, mysterious injury to star

Minnesota Vikings linebacker Za’Darius Smith did not practice on Wednesday due to what has been described as a knee injury.

The Minnesota Vikings avoided a 1-2 start to the season after their comeback victory over the rival Detroit Lions in Week 3. But they were hit by injuries, most notably to star running back Dalvin Cook. But as it turns out, there is a star on the defensive side of the ball whose status is worht keeping an eye on heading into Week 4.

Linebacker Za’Darius Smith did not participate in practice on Wednesday. According to Chris Tomasson of St. Paul Pioneer Press, Smith was spotted wearing a sleeve on his left knee and had a bit of a limp after getting hurt late against the Lions. Smith did not comment on the injury, per Tomasson.

Za’Darius Smith shows up on Vikings’ Week 4 injury report

According to the Vikings’ injury report, Smith was a non-participant due to a knee injury.

Smith had spent the previous three seasons with the rival Green Bay Packers, but he missed the majority of the 2021 season due to a back injury. The team released him from his contract after the year, making him a free agent. After talking with the Baltimore Ravens, Smith ultimately decided to sign a three-year, $42 million contract with the Vikings.

In his first game in a Vikings uniform, Smith recorded a sack on his former teammate, quarterback Aaron Rodgers, in the team’s 23-7 victory.

On the season, Smith tallied eight total tackles and two sacks through three games.

There are two more practices remaining for the Vikings as they head to London to take on the New Orleans Saints. Fans should get a better idea on if he will be able to play in Week 4.