Pittsburgh outlasted Minnesota 24-21 in Ireland, moving to 3-1 as the bye week arrives. Kenneth Gainwell bolstered the ground game with 99 yards and two rushing TDs, while Aaron Rodgers connected with DK Metcalf for an 80-yard strike to spark the offense. The Steelers’ defense harassed Carson Wentz, notching six sacks and a pivotal stop to seal it. Rooney family pride and a pro-Steelers crowd framed a memorable international showcase and a confident, balanced Pittsburgh front looking ahead to Week 6.

M Vikings Week 3 injury report vs Cincinnati shows J.J. McCarthy ruled out with an ankle ailment, Ryan Kelly out (concussion) and Justin Skule out (concussion). Christian Darrisaw is listed as questionable with a knee issue, while Andrew Van Ginkel, Austin Keys and Harrison Smith sit as questionable (illness or injury). Jonathan Greenard, Donovan Jackson, Theo Jackson, Jeff Okudah and Josh Oliver have been removed from the injury report, signaling they’re likely to play. This mix of absences and returns could shift offensive and defensive balance in a pivotal Week 3 matchup.

Fantasy managers should watch late-week updates closely as depth pieces fill in, with potential implications for protection, run efficiency, and secondary coverage. The Bengals game could expose interior line and boundary depth if key Vikings players are limited, making late-week decisions and potential streaming choices more critical than usual.

Theo Jackson could be the Vikings' X-factor in 2025, stepping into Cam Bynum's safety role as Flores' defense leans on a versatile back end. Jackson has prepared as the primary backup to Josh Metellus, Cam Bynum, and Harrison Smith, and now gets a true chance to translate that prep into game-ready value.

A 2022 sixth-rounder, Jackson has earned praise for preparation and reliability. If he can deliver the same production Bynum provided, Minnesota's defense could keep producing at an elite level, preserving aggressive blitzing while maintaining coverage integrity.

The Minnesota Vikings' defense is poised for an impactful season as it enters Year 3 under defensive coordinator Brian Flores. With the return of key players like Andrew Van Ginkel and the addition of new talent, the team is aiming to enhance their unconventional defensive strategies. The players have expressed confidence in Flores' complex schemes, indicating a mastery of the system that allows for creative gameplay.

During training camp, players showcased their skills, with notable interceptions by linebackers Ivan Pace Jr. and Andrew Van Ginkel. The defense's adaptability and fluidity in coverage are evident, reflecting their increased comfort with the system. As they continue to integrate new personnel, the Vikings' defense is set to challenge opposing offenses in innovative ways.