Logo

Vikings Accused of Injury Report Fraud on Pro Bowler Ahead of Steelers Matchup — NFL Hands Down Heavy Penalty

From Overlooked Fifth-Round Pick to Star Playmaker: The Surprising Rise of Andrew  Van Ginkel in the Vikings' Defense | NFL News - Times of India

Dublin, Ireland – September 27, 2025 — On the eve of a historic international matchup at Croke Park, the Minnesota Vikings were hit with a $100,000 fine by the NFL for violating the league’s injury-reporting policy regarding outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel.

Van Ginkel suffered a neck injury in Week 3. Head coach Kevin O’Connell initially indicated the issue wasn’t long-term. But the league determined Minnesota failed to accurately disclose his recovery status while leaving open the possibility he could play despite being not game-ready. The NFL viewed this as a deliberate attempt to preserve a tactical surprise against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Van Ginkel’s confirmed absence is a major blow to the Vikings’ defense:

  • He’s one of their most active edge defenders, central to their pass rush and perimeter pressure.
  • Through the first three weeks, he logged multiple impact QB hits, helping disrupt opposing protections.
  • Without him, more responsibility shifts to Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, while Minnesota’s linebacker depth will be tested.

That’s especially concerning with Aaron Rodgers under center for the Steelers. Rodgers’ veteran processing and pre-snap diagnostics can punish soft edges and exploit the very space Van Ginkel typically closes, particularly on quick-game adjustments, play-action, and pocket slides.

The $100,000 penalty is only the surface-level damage. The larger cost is losing a tone-setter off the edge during a showcase week in Ireland. It’s an opening for Pittsburgh to lean into Steel Curtain toughness against a distracted opponent dealing with both on- and off-field turbulence.

“We respect the NFL’s decision, but we’re disappointed to lose Andrew at such a critical moment. He’s a vital piece of our defense. We’ll have to adapt quickly if we’re going to hold up against Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers.” - HC Kevin O’Connell

49ers Fan-Favourite OL Faces Family Tragedy Ahead of Week 6 Game as Military-Trained Skydiving Instructor Dies in Nashville
San Francisco 49ers rookie offensive lineman Dominick Puni is mourning a devastating personal loss following the team’s Week 5 matchup, as his cousin Justin Fuller, a respected military-trained skydiving instructor, died in a tragic tandem jump accident near Nashville.Fuller, 35, was fatally injured after becoming separated from his parachute harness mid-air during a jump organized by Go Skydive Nashville. His student survived after landing in a tree with the parachute deployed and was later rescued by firefighters.Police confirmed Fuller’s body was recovered in a wooded area off Ashland City Highway. The Nashville Fire Department called it “one of the most complex high-angle rescues in recent years,” commending its personnel for the effort. Justin Fuller, known by the nickname "Spidey," died after a tandem skydiving jump went wrong on Oct. 4, 2025, near Nashville, Tennessee. (Facebook/Justin Fuller Spidey) Fuller, known affectionately as “Spidey,” had completed more than 5,000 jumps and trained U.S. military personnel in advanced aerial maneuvers. Friends described him as “fearless, focused, and committed to lifting others higher — both in life and in the air.” Puni, whose mother is the younger sister of Fuller's , grew up admiring his cousin’s discipline and sense of purpose. Family members say that influence helped shape his mental toughness and leadership on the field. A relative told local media, “Justin taught Dominick that strength isn’t about being unbreakable — it’s about standing firm when life hits hardest. That’s exactly how Dominick lives and plays today.” Puni, a rookie out of Kansas, has steadily earned the 49ers’ trust along the offensive line, praised for his physicality in the run game and poise in protection. Coaches describe him as “wise beyond his years.” The 49ers have privately offered support and time for Puni and his family, ensuring he can process the loss away from team obligations. Teammates have rallied behind him, honoring his family’s resilience and service background. The FAA is investigating the incident, while tributes to Fuller — under his nickname “Spidey” — continue to flood social media from military peers, skydivers, and fans nationwide. “He taught others to fly — now he’s flying higher than all of us,” one tribute read.