# Minnesota Vikings preseason performance and roster updates

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/minnesota-vikings-preseason-performance-and-roster-updates
> Updated: 2026-08-29T04:15:41.000Z. Sources: 24. Developments: 4.

The Minnesota Vikings’ preseason began with a 13-10 victory over the New York Giants. The game included a significant injury update as head coach Kevin O’Connell clarified that Jamal Adams suffered a right quadricep tendon tear after being carted off the field. While quarterback J.J. McCarthy struggled to read the field in his debut, wide receiver Myles Price showed potential with notable catches from Carson Wentz.

Following the opener, the Vikings lost 13-3 to the Baltimore Ravens. The offense struggled to score a touchdown, and McCarthy’s performance was marked by inaccurate passes and a minor injury scare that left him appearing “hobbled” after hits to the knee. Despite his concerns, McCarthy later stated he was healthy. The matchup intensified roster competition ahead of the August 30 deadline, with players like undrafted rookie safety Jacob Thomas and wide receiver Dillon Bell making cases for roster spots.

In the preseason finale, the Vikings were defeated 34-6 by the Denver Broncos. The team did not utilize McCarthy during the contest, as he is currently managing a minor ankle injury. The loss follows a series of preseason struggles for the Vikings' offense as they finalize their 53-man roster.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-29: Denver Broncos rout Minnesota Vikings 34-6 in preseason finale

Sam Ehlinger threw three touchdowns, including an 88-yard pass, to lead the Denver Broncos to a 34-6 preseason victory over the Minnesota Vikings.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denver-broncos-rout-minnesota-vikings-34-6-in-preseason-finale

### 2026-08-23: Minnesota Vikings lose 13-3 to Ravens in preseason game

The Minnesota Vikings fell 13-3 to the Baltimore Ravens in a preseason matchup, featuring standout performances from Jacob Thomas and Dillon Bell amidst intense roster competition.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minnesota-vikings-lose-13-3-to-ravens-in-preseason-game

### 2026-08-21: Baltimore Ravens defeat Minnesota Vikings 13-3 in preseason game

The Baltimore Ravens beat the Minnesota Vikings 13-3 in a preseason matchup defined by strong defenses and concerns over Vikings quarterback J. J. McCarthy’s performance and health.

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minnesota-vikings-players-face-key-preseason-tests-against-ravens

### 2026-08-17: Minnesota Vikings defeat New York Giants in preseason opener

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the New York Giants 13-10 in a preseason game marked by Jamal Adams' quadricep tendon tear and mixed performances from J. J. McCarthy and Myles Price.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minnesota-vikings-defeat-new-york-giants-in-preseason-opener

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Cite as: Minnesota Vikings preseason performance and roster updates. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/minnesota-vikings-preseason-performance-and-roster-updates