Kyler Murray Clears Concussion Protocol, Set to Start for Vikings

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray has successfully passed the NFL's concussion protocol and has been cleared to start Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Head Coach Kevin O'Connell announced Monday.

Murray missed the Vikings' Week 2 game against the Chicago Bears after sustaining a concussion during the season opener against the Green Bay Packers. The injury occurred after a hit where Murray's forearm struck his helmet, followed by a blow to the neck from two Packers players.

Despite leaving the field, Murray was responsive in the immediate aftermath. He was subsequently placed in the league's protocol, requiring evaluation by independent physicians.

During Murray's absence, Carson Wentz took over as the starting quarterback. Wentz led the Vikings to a comeback victory over the Packers in Week 1 and secured another win against the Bears in Week 2, though the team's offensive performance in the latter game was modest. In the 9-3 victory over Chicago, Wentz completed 11 of 20 passes for 143 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions.

O'Connell noted that Murray observed Wentz's play while sidelined. "I think the starting point is he's just watched Carson really function in a way that there wasn't, Carson wasn't, you know, doing crazy things," O'Connell said. "He was just protecting the football, making good decisions, making some big-time throws when he could, and running the show. And and I think [Murray] saw some plays get made. I think he saw our team play totally connected and complimentary of all of the other two phases and what that can do for the Minnesota Vikings on a Sunday."

Murray had won the starting quarterback job in training camp over J.J. McCarthy, who was subsequently demoted to third string. The Vikings currently lead the NFC North with a 2-0 record.