(This story was updated to provide up-to-date information on the player’s injury.)
The Minnesota Vikings have gotten off to a shaky start on Sunday against one of their division rivals, the Chicago Bears. The first quarter was somewhat of a disaster for the Vikings, as running back Aaron Jones fumbled on the Bears’ 2-yard line to kill a drive that could have ended up in an early touchdown.
Things went from bad to worse for the Vikings, as on the ensuing drive, linebacker and last year’s feel-good story Ivan Pace, Jr. was injured. As the Bears were trying to get out of the shadow of their own end zone, they handed the ball off for a short gain. On the ensuing tackle, a pile of players collapsed on Pace, who went down with an apparent leg injury.
Ivan Pace injury update
After Pace went down, trainers came out on the field and examined his leg. Upon replay, it looked like Pace had suffered what could potentially be a significant leg injury. Vikings beat writer for The Athletic Alec Lewis has provided us with an update that Pace Jr. has been ruled out for the remainder of the game against the Bears.
How long will Pace be out?
We’re not going to speculate on any further status at this time, but Vikings Wire will keep you updated with any updates on Pace’s status as they become available.
Vikings linebacker depth chart
With Pace currently out, the Vikings have shifted linebacker Blake Cashman to Pace’s position, with linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill taking over Cashman’s position. The team has also appeared to be using nickelback and all-around defensive chess piece Joshua Metellus more in the wake of Pace’s injury.