Minnesota’s offensive line delivered a strong season-opening performance, helping pave the way for the comeback win over Green Bay.
The Minnesota Vikings' comeback victory over the Green Bay Packers featured plenty of headline-worthy performances, but the offensive line deserves plenty of credit for helping make the win possible.
After trailing 22-10 late in the third quarter, Minnesota completely flipped the game, scoring 29 unanswered points to close out the season opener with a 39-22 win. While Carson Wentz stepped in and delivered when the Vikings needed him most, the offensive line gave him the time and stability necessary to lead the offense.
According to Pro Football Focus, the Vikings' offensive line allowed just six pressures and one sack throughout the game.
The left side of the front stood out in particular, with left tackle Christian Darrisaw and left guard Donovan Jackson each finishing the afternoon without allowing a single pressure. Neither player was charged with a sack or penalty either, so Minnesota couldn't have asked for much more from that side of the line.
For Darrisaw, it was another encouraging sign that he is finally getting back to looking like the dominant left tackle the Vikings know he can be.
Darrisaw dealt with injuries and limitations throughout the 2025 season, but Minnesota entered this season expecting a healthy version of its franchise tackle to make a significant difference. That expectation was on full display against Green Bay.
Jackson was equally impressive. The second-year guard earned an 88.4 pass-blocking grade from PFF.
That performance is encouraging considering how important Jackson is to the Vikings' offensive line moving forward. Minnesota selected him in the first round of last years NFL Draft, and a strong second season could solidify the left side of the offensive line for years to come.
The interior wasn't perfect, however.
Blake Brandel allowed one pressure and was charged with one penalty, while Will Fries surrendered three pressures and a sack. Brian O'Neill allowed two pressures and was also flagged once.
Still, the overall performance was extremely encouraging.
The Vikings' offensive line played all 56 offensive snaps together, giving the group an important opportunity to build chemistry and consistency right from the beginning of the season.
That continuity could prove valuable as the season progresses.
Minnesota entered 2026 hoping improved health and experience would help turn the offensive line into a strength. The Vikings dealt with significant injuries and inconsistency along the line last season, but the group entered this year with Darrisaw healthy, Jackson entering his second season and the rest of the unit returning with additional experience.
There is obviously still plenty of football left to play, and one game doesn't erase every concern. But the opening performance provided a reason for optimism.
