The Minnesota Vikings have endured a challenging start to the season, grappling with a slew of injuries. However, some key players are set to return in Week 7 as the Vikings prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles. Among the most significant returns this weekend is linebacker Blake Cashman, who has appeared in just one game so far this season.

Cashman strained his hamstring during Week 1 against the Chicago Bears and has been sidelined since. According to Kevin Seifert of ESPN, “Cashman, who suffered a hamstring injury while chasing Bears quarterback Caleb Williams to the sideline in Week 1, is expected to start Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles at U.S. Bank Stadium.”

### Blake Cashman: A Crucial Piece for the Vikings’ Defense

Cashman joined the Vikings ahead of the 2024 season following two years with the Houston Texans and three seasons with the New York Jets, where he began his NFL career. Since becoming a Viking, Cashman’s health has been a key indicator of the team’s overall performance. Seifert highlighted that Minnesota boasts an impressive 13-1 record in games where Cashman starts, compared to a balanced 4-4 without him.

Last season, Cashman led the team in tackles, recording 112 total (68 solo) over 14 games. His defensive contributions also included eight tackles for loss, eight pass breakups, 4.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. Currently 29 years old, Cashman has two seasons remaining on his three-year, $22.5 million contract with Minnesota, which includes the 2025 campaign.

### Injury Updates: Andrew Van Ginkel Out, J.J. McCarthy as Emergency QB

While Blake Cashman is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game, quarterback J.J. McCarthy is also in a similar status. Nevertheless, the Vikings have confirmed that Carson Wentz will start his fourth consecutive game under center. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will serve as the backup quarterback, with McCarthy designated as the third-string and emergency quarterback.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell shared insights on McCarthy’s progression, saying, “He got a ton of reps this week, both with the [first] group and also with getting some really good reps with that look team of feeling the rush of [Jonathan] Greenard, [Dallas] Turner, [Javon] Hargrave, [Jonathan] Allen and really working on some things that are starting to come to fruition.”

On the downside, edge rusher/outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel will be entirely absent for Sunday’s contest. Van Ginkel remains sidelined with a neck injury sustained in Week 3. The Vikings’ early bye week after consecutive overseas games in Dublin and London (Weeks 4 and 5) means Van Ginkel will miss his third game rather than a fourth.

Van Ginkel has been a breakout star for Minnesota’s defense this year, earning a Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors. His impressive 2024 campaign included 18 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, six pass breakups, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and two defensive touchdowns.

### Looking Ahead: Vikings Defense Gets a Boost as Eagles Arrive Struggling

Beyond the boost of Cashman returning, the Vikings’ defense faces an Eagles offense that has struggled considerably this season. Philadelphia enters Week 7 after consecutive losses, scoring just 17 points in each of their last two games.

With a healthier roster and momentum on their side, the Vikings will look to capitalize on the Eagles’ offensive woes at U.S. Bank Stadium this Sunday.
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