Browns vs. Vikings Week 2 Preseason: Who’s In, Who’s Out?

The Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings are set to face off in Week 2 of the 2024 NFL preseason, but both teams are dealing with significant injury concerns that could shape the outcome of the game.

The intensity of their joint practices this week has already led to a few altercations, with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell reportedly expressing frustration with Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz over the physical nature of the sessions. According to The Athletic’s Alec Lewis, O’Connell was seen urging Schwartz to “tone down the physicality” after several Vikings players left practice with injuries.

Per ESPN , The Browns are entering the game with several key players sidelined due to injuries:

Browns Out:

• RB Nick Chubb
• RB Nyheim Hines
• LT Jedrick Wills Jr.
• CB Greg Newsome II
• DT Dalvin Tomlinson
• SS D’Anthony Bell

Browns IR:

• CB Vincent Gray (groin injury sustained during Week 1 preseason game vs. Packers)

Additionally, several Browns players are listed as questionable, including WR David Bell, C Luke Wypler, DE Za’Darius Smith, DT Mike Hall Jr., LB Tony Fields II, LB Jordan Hicks, LB Nathaniel Watson, and CB Denzel Ward, who is also in concussion protocol.

Related: Browns Reveal Roster Plans For Minnesota Game

The Minnesota Vikings are not without their own injury woes . Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will miss the entire 2024 season after undergoing a full repair of a torn meniscus in his right knee. Wide receiver Jordan Addison also sustained an ankle injury during Wednesday’s practice and was carted off the field. While head coach Kevin O’Connell stated that Addison’s injury is not believed to be serious, the receiver is unlikely to practice on Thursday.

As the Browns and Vikings gear up for their preseason clash, the absence of key players on both sides adds an element of uncertainty to the game. Both teams will need to rely on their depth as they navigate these injuries, using the preseason to evaluate potential replacements and adjust their strategies ahead of the regular season.