Kyler Murray exits Vikings debut after injury, placed in concussion protocol

Quarterback Kyler Murray left the Minnesota Vikings' regular-season opening game in the first quarter after sustaining a head injury. The injury occurred when he was tackled by Green Bay Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness, who delivered a forearm strike to Murray's helmet, followed by a hit from safety Javaj Bullard to the neck and head area that caused Murray's helmet to come off.

Murray was able to walk off the field unaided and was taken to the locker room for a concussion evaluation. Team officials later listed him as questionable to return and subsequently ruled him out of the remainder of the game. He will now enter the NFL's concussion protocol, which requires independent medical assessment before he can be cleared to play again.

Backup quarterback Carson Wentz replaced Murray for the rest of the contest. The Vikings' medical staff indicated that recovery timelines for a first concussion typically range from one to three weeks, depending on individual assessment.