Vikings’ Jordan Hicks Hospitalized with Compartment Syndrome
EAGAN, Minn. – Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jordan Hicks is currently hospitalized after developing compartment syndrome in his right leg. The condition occurred following the team’s 27-19 victory over the Saints, according to coach Kevin O’Connell.
Hicks underwent a procedure on Sunday night and has remained in the hospital since then. Sources have revealed that the Vikings are planning to re-sign four-time Pro Bowl linebacker Anthony Barr in response to Hicks’ injury. This move suggests that Hicks may be sidelined for an extended period and could potentially be placed on injured reserve.
The incident leading to Hicks’ injury occurred during the first quarter of Sunday’s game when he collided with teammate Cam Bynum while making a tackle. Despite leaving the field briefly, Hicks returned to play for another 23 defensive and special teams snaps before exiting the game in the third quarter due to what the team initially referred to as a shin contusion.
After the game, Hicks experienced significant swelling in the postgame locker room, causing concern among the team’s medical staff. He was immediately transported to a local hospital, where doctors recommended an immediate procedure. Compartment syndrome is diagnosed when swelling and pressure in a bruised area reach dangerous levels, potentially leading to permanent muscle damage if not treated promptly.
Coach O’Connell praised the team’s medical staff for their quick response, stating, “I give our medical staff credit for getting him quickly to the hospital. He’s doing well and on the road to being fully back in our facility.”
There is currently no set timetable for Hicks’ release from the hospital, but he has already been ruled out of the Vikings’ upcoming game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday night. As a team captain, Hicks has started every game this season and played 98% of the defensive snaps leading up to Week 10. Rookie Ivan Pace Jr. is expected to step into his role, including taking on the responsibilities of the primary defensive signal-caller.
In other injury news, Coach O’Connell revealed that the Vikings will increase receiver Justin Jefferson’s workload in practice this week. Jefferson has been recovering from a right hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined since Week 5. The team opened his 21-day practice window last week, indicating that he could be activated to the 53-man roster at any time. However, O’Connell emphasized that they will not rush his return, prioritizing his long-term recovery and ensuring his readiness to make a significant impact on the team.
“I know nobody wants to be out there more than Justin, maybe with the exception of me wanting him out there,” O’Connell said. “But we’re going to continue to be smart and know that when we do get him back, it’s going to be a major, major boost for us.”