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

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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

Ravens Update Quarterback Depth Amid Controversies - Re-signed Pro Bowl Star to QB2
Baltimore, MD – October 7, 2025 Following Cooper Rush's disappointing performance in the humiliating 10-44 loss to the Houston Texans on Saturday (October 6), the Baltimore Ravens are facing intense debates about their quarterback room depth. With Lamar Jackson still nursing a hamstring injury and potentially missing the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams (scheduled for Week 6), the big question arises: Should Tyler Huntley – the former Ravens Pro Bowl star – get the starting nod over Rush? Huntley, 27 years old, was re-signed by the Ravens to the practice squad at the end of August 2025 and quickly elevated to QB2 for Week 5. He served as the Ravens' backup QB from 2020-2024, leading the team to the playoffs in 2022 and earning a Pro Bowl replacement spot thanks to his impressive performances filling in for Jackson. With experience in 9 starts (3-6 record), Huntley brings familiarity to the Ravens' offensive system, particularly his mobility and game-reading skills – something Rush seemed to lack in the Texans loss, where he completed only 18/34 passes with 1 TD and 2 INTs, resulting in the offense scoring just 10 points. The controversy exploded on social media, with the hashtag #RavensFlock divided. Many fans support Huntley: "Rush has proven he's not the solution. Huntley knows the system, knows how to win games – put him in!" (from account @RavensFanatic on X). Meanwhile, others defend Rush, arguing he needs time to adapt after transferring from the Dallas Cowboys: "Rush just started his first game for us. Don't rush to conclusions – he has playoff experience!" However, Rush's performance (only 189 passing yards, no big plays) has raised concerns about the depth chart, especially with Jackson possibly out for another 1-2 weeks. Head coach John Harbaugh hasn't commented directly, but in the post-Texans press conference, he hinted at a reevaluation: "We have multiple quality options at QB. Tyler is ready, and we'll choose the one best suited to win." ESPN insiders report that Huntley has been practicing fully and performing well, potentially being promoted to official QB2 if Jackson misses the Rams game – a crucial matchup for the Ravens (currently 1-4) to salvage their season. Signing Huntley – a Pro Bowl star – is seen as a smart move amid the controversies, boosting the Ravens' depth and flexibility. If Huntley gets "the nod" to start, it could be his chance to prove his value, just like his previous fill-ins for Jackson. Ravens fans are awaiting the decision – will "Snoop" (Huntley's nickname) return to save the team? Follow updates from baltimoreravens.com for more details. #RavensFlock #QBControversy