Quarterback Kyler Murray has been cleared from concussion protocol and will return as the starter for Minnesota in Sunday’s Week 3 game against Tampa Bay, coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed. The Vikings enter the matchup 2‑0, marking their first 2‑0 start against division rivals since 2003.
Kyler Murray cleared concussion protocol on Monday and is set to start at quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings in their Week 3 contest against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, head coach Kevin O'Connell announced (source [1]). Murray exited the season opener against the Green Bay Packers after sustaining a concussion on his 11th snap as a Viking (source [1]). He missed only one start, with veteran Carson Wentz stepping in and guiding a comeback win at Soldier Field, where he recorded his 100th career start (source [1]).
The Vikings, now 2‑0 on the season, have achieved a rare early‑season feat: it is the first time they have opened a campaign with a 2‑0 record against division opponents since 2003, and only the third such start in franchise history (source [1]). O'Connell praised Wentz’s performance, noting that Murray could learn from his predecessor’s disciplined approach of protecting the football and making smart decisions (source [1]). "He saw Carson really function in a way that wasn't about doing crazy things, just protecting the ball and making good throws," O'Connell said.
O'Connell also highlighted Murray’s early snaps, citing a third‑down conversion and a tight pass to Justin, as well as a play where Murray used his legs to protect himself (source [1]). He cautioned against repeating a turnover that occurred on Murray’s second snap, emphasizing the need for consistent ball security (source [1]).
The Buccaneers game is scheduled to kick off at 3:05 p.m. Central Time on Sunday (source [1]). With Murray back under center, Minnesota hopes to continue its offensive momentum and extend its unbeaten start, while Tampa Bay looks to capitalize on its home‑field advantage.