Darrisaw sat out after a pregame knee test, signaling a cautious approach to his 101⁄2-month post-surgery return. The Vikings moved Justin Skule to left tackle, highlighting the team's big-picture care for a high-impact blocker. The moment still left McCarthy with more edge pressure than ideal, but Minnesota battled through with an eye on the long-term.

Christian Darrisaw anchored the Vikings' left edge, keeping pressure at bay for Minnesota’s late-game surge and helping facilitate a comeback bid after Chicago’s early onslaught.

Darrisaw inactive; Skule starts at left tackle, impacting Vikings' pass protection and run design.

Darrisaw’s health status influences Minnesota’s protection and McCarthy’s time to throw, shaping the Vikings’ Week 1 ceiling and McCarthy’s opportunities.

Darrisaw’s Week 1 availability is in flux due to a knee injury. Limited practice weeks and a cautious approach suggest a real chance he sits if not fully recovered, with Week 2 as a potential return. His status is a foundation for Vikings’ blocking success and fantasy projections for Cousins, Cook/Mattison, and the WRs.