Vikings QB Kyler Murray Clears Protocol, Will Start vs. Buccaneers

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray has cleared concussion protocol and will start Sunday's Week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, head coach Kevin O'Connell announced Monday. The development ends a brief quarterback uncertainty for the undefeated Vikings, who improved to 2-0 with backup Carson Wentz leading the team to a 9-3 victory over the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Murray suffered a concussion during the Vikings' season-opening win over the Green Bay Packers on September 14, 2026. He was limited to 11 snaps before exiting the game, which Minnesota ultimately won in a comeback led by Wentz. The concussion placed Murray in the NFL's protocol, and he was ruled out for the Week 2 contest against Chicago. O'Connell had expressed optimism on Sunday that Murray would receive clearance, and the official announcement came the following day. With the protocol completed, Murray will resume his role as the team's starting quarterback for the trip to Tampa Bay. Wentz stepped in admirably during Murray's absence. He directed a fourth-quarter comeback in the opener and then managed the offense in a defensive struggle against the Bears.