The Minnesota Vikings were finally back in action for their first preseason game of the season on Saturday, defeating the New York Giants 13-10. Overall, the vibes were mostly positive during and after the game, as the Vikings showed growth and got notable performances from players in all three phases. Yet, there was also one very somber cloud hanging over the team.
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Minnesota Vikings’ Jamal Adams Suffered Season-Ending Knee Injury
Minnesota Vikings
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
One big takeaway from the Vikings’ preseason opener was just how active Brian Flores’s defense was. Even though inside linebackers coach Mike Siravo was calling plays for the first half and defensive running game coordinator Ryan Nielsen handled the second half, it felt like coach Flo was still in control with how often the defense dialed up blitzes.
Jamal Adams, right through the gap.
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Some of those blitzes, including one from Jamal Adams, were very successful. Unfortunately, that blip of explosiveness fans quickly appreciated from Adams is the last they’ll see of him in 2026.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Adams suffered a season-ending knee injury in Saturday’s win. The former All-Pro safety was carted off the field, and the TV broadcast detailed how head coach Kevin O’Connell took time to embrace the 30-year-old defender, both knowing he had been dealt a serious blow.
Still, with injuries, one can never be too sure. Unfortunately in this case, the MRI revealed Adams’ biggest fears had once again come true. Adams previously tore his quad, limiting him to just 15 games from 2022 to 2024. Adams bounced back after switching to linebacker last season and played all 17 games for the Las Vegas Raiders.
But Adams was thrilled to be in Minnesota, where new GM Nolan Teasley had once been part of trading two first-round picks to bring him to Seattle. Adams not only found a team that would let him play safety again, it appeared like coach Flores had a specific role picked out for the three-time Pro Bowler. Now, he’ll have to begin another long road to recovery.