After a sidelined stint, the dynamic signal-caller aims to ignite Minnesota’s offense against Tampa Bay, with analysts forecasting a multi-touchdown performance in his highly anticipated comeback.
The Minnesota Vikings get their quarterback back this week. Vikings signal caller Kyler Murray returns from injury after an early scare in a Week 1 win over the Green Bay Packers, 39-22.
The Vikings followed that win with a 9-3 victory over the Chicago Bears, but offense was not the driver of the win. Backup quarterback Carson Wentz did enough to secure the victory, but the Vikings could be getting more help offensively this week.
Steve Silverman of Clutch Points has big expectations for Murray against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this week. He predicted Murray would have three total touchdowns in his first game action since his injury. Here's some of what Silverman wrote on the return.
"The Vikings offense has been handicapped without Murray under center. Head coach Kevin O'Connell wants to take advantage of Murray's ability to escape pressure and create plays with his feet.
That did not happen in the opener, as he got crushed early in the first quarter and was forced out of action. If he can avoid a big hit early in this game, the Vikings should be able to perform at a very high level against the Bucs. Look for O'Connell to call one or two designed runs for Murray early in the game so he can have confidence as the game proceeds. ...
Murray has been working regularly with Addison and the two may have an excellent partnership as the season proceeds. The Bucs defense ranks 21st in the league and is giving up 234.0 yards per game. Jefferson, Addison and tight end T.J. Hockenson should be able to find open spaces against this unit. The Bucs are allowing 28.0 points per game and struggled against the Cincinnati Bengals in the opener and the Cleveland Browns in Week 2."
Sep 13, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray (1) runs for a pass against Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt (95) during the second half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn ImagesWhether or not Murray will effect great change is still to be seen. The Vikings offense was productive with Wentz at quarterback against the Packers. Still, the Packers added Murray for his high upside and potential. Now he gets to prove it against a quality opponent.
The Buccaneers will have the offensive firepower to keep Minnesota in an aggressive offensive game. In all likelihood, the Vikings will need to score more than nine points to beat the Bucs and star quarterback Baker Mayfield this week.
Murray and company will hope to bring their best game when they take on the Buccaneers this weekend.
