With the running game sidelined by injuries, quarterback Kyler Murray must lean on red zone threat Jauan Jennings to finally unlock a stagnant offense against Tampa Bay.
The Minnesota Vikings defense has been productive this season. And while it has had its moments, the offense has not been productive.
In Week 1, Minnesota added 39 points to defense the Green Bay Packers. and while the high point total and Wentz's three touchdown passes were impressive, the Vikings offense did not generate many yards. Instead, the Minnesota defense propped up the offense with good field position.
Defensive coordinator Brian Flores and company authored another dominant performance in Week 2 holding the Chicago Bears to three points. Yet, for all the added opportunities that the Vikings saw in the game, Minnesota could only muster up three field goals in the 9-3 win.
Now, with quarterback Kyler Murray back from concussion protocol, many are looking for which skill player will step up to help Murray and the offense. One NFL analyst has an answer.
Adam Carlson of Minnesota Vikings on SI presented a solution to the Vikings' offensive woes in the early going. Here's some of what Carlson had to write on the Vikings' potential breakout in Week 3.
"Minnesota will need to be able to move the ball through the air since there are some serious questions about the run game. Starting running back Aaron Jones is hoping to play through a knee injury after being a full participant in Friday's practice. Backup Jordan Mason is on injured reserve after having thumb surgery. Third-string running back DeeJay Dallas is dealing with a toe injury. And RB4 Demond Claiborne has yet to have a rushing attempt in the NFL.
There is a lot of pressure on the Vikings to find a way to move the chains against the Buccaneers this weekend, and it will come down to Murray's ability to connect with open receivers. For that, head coach Kevin O'Connell would be smart to draw up plays to get the ball in the hands of experienced offensive weapons.
(Jauan) Jennings has a history of being a red zone threat from his days with the 49ers and would be great in that role for Minnesota. Last season, ten percent of his catches resulted in a touchdown for San Francisco, and it would be silly for the Vikings not to take advantage of a player with that skill set."
Sep 20, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (15) catches a pass while being defended by Minnesota Vikings cornerback James Pierre (23) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn ImagesJauan Jennings had not got to play much in 2026, but he will have a chance to make a big impact. The free agent signing was brought in as a premier piece from the Vikings' 2026 free agent haul.
If the Jennings and Murray are able to connect in Week 3, the Vikings can take advantage of the free wins the defense gave the offense in the first two weeks.
Minnesota will hope to exceed expectations and get to 3-0 with a win over the Raiders.
