Kyler Murray exits Vikings debut after concussion from hit involving Packers defender
Quarterback Kyler Murray left the game early after a concussion caused by a hit from Packers safety Javon Bullard, while Vikings lineman Brian O'Neill said he wished he had responded more aggressively.
Veteran quarterback Kyler Murray was forced out of his first game with the Minnesota Vikings after sustaining a concussion just 11 plays into the season opener against the Green Bay Packers. The injury occurred on a third-down scramble in the first quarter when Murray was hit by Packers defensive end Lukas Van Ness and safety Javon Bullard, the latter receiving a penalty for unnecessary roughness.
Vikings right tackle Brian O'Neill, who pushed Bullard in defense of Murray, later said he regretted not taking a stronger stance against the defender. > "It was so bang, bang. I was probably wrong to not freak out more than that. So I kind of wish I took a shot at him," O'Neill told ESPN reporter Kevin Seifert.
Murray remained motionless on the field, displaying a fencing posture commonly associated with brain trauma. Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson described the scene as frustrating, adding that it was difficult to watch a teammate go down early in the game.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Murray was placed in concussion protocol but appeared to be doing well during a brief post-game locker-room check. > "I don't have a lot to update, other than I did just see him and he seemed to be doing pretty well," O'Connell said.
The Vikings later secured a 39-22 victory over the Packers, with backup quarterback Carson Wentz throwing three touchdown passes.