Vikings vs. Lions Week 17 Inactives Revealed: Key Absences Shake Up Christmas Clash Lineups
MINNEAPOLIS — As the Minnesota Vikings prepare to host the Detroit Lions in a pivotal Week 17 showdown on Christmas Day, both teams have announced their inactive lists, highlighting significant absences that could sway the outcome of this high-stakes NFC North battle.
Lions Sideline Key Lineman Decker, But St. Brown Returns
The Detroit Lions will be without starting left tackle Taylor Decker, who is sidelined due to illness, a blow to their offensive line protection.[1] Joining Decker on the sidelines are left guard Trystan Colon (wrist), center/guard Michael Niese, wide receiver Dominic Lovett, defensive linemen Mekhi Wingo and Tyler Lacy, and a safety whose name was not specified in reports.[1]
Providing a boost for Detroit, star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is active and expected to play, offering quarterback Jared Goff a reliable target in what could be a pass-heavy game plan.[1][5]
Vikings Rest Stars O’Neill, Hockenson Ahead of Playoff Push
For the Vikings, the inactive list features several high-profile names, signaling potential rest for players with one eye on the playoffs. Tackle Brian O’Neill is out, forcing adjustments along the offensive line where Justin Skule is likely to start at left tackle, alongside Donovan Jackson at left guard, Michael Jurgens at center, and Will — with further details on the right side pending confirmation.[2][4]
Also inactive for Minnesota are quarterback J.J. McCarthy, backup QB Brett Rypien (designated as the emergency third quarterback), running back Jordan Mason, linebacker Austin Keys, and tight end T.J. Hockenson, a Pro Bowl caliber player whose absence removes a key safety valve for the Vikings’ passing attack.[2][4]
Strategic Implications for the Christmas Day Tripleheader
This game, part of the NFL’s Week 17 Christmas Day tripleheader streaming on Netflix, kicks off at 1 p.m. ET from U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis — correcting earlier reports listing Northwest Stadium.[2] The Lions, fighting to secure a playoff spot, must compensate for their depleted offensive line, while the Vikings’ inactives suggest coach Kevin O’Connell may be prioritizing health for postseason matchups.
“The absence of O’Neill means the starting offensive line will likely be Justin Skule (LT), Donovan Jackson (LG), Michael Jurgens (C), Will…” reports note, indicating a reshuffled unit that could face pressure from Detroit’s pass rush.[4]
Fantasy Football and Betting Impact
Fantasy managers take note: Amon-Ra St. Brown’s return elevates his status as a WR1 option, while T.J. Hockenson’s absence opens targets for other Vikings receivers.[3] Betting lines may shift with Decker out, as Detroit’s protection vulnerabilities could limit their ground game.
| Team | Player | Position | Reason (if known) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lions | Taylor Decker | LT | Illness |
| Trystan Colon | LG | Wrist | |
| Michael Niese | C/G | – | |
| Dominic Lovett | WR | – | |
| Mekhi Wingo | DL | – | |
| Tyler Lacy | DL | – | |
| Safety (TBD) | S | – | |
| Vikings | J.J. McCarthy | QB | – |
| Brett Rypien | QB | Emergency 3rd QB | |
| Jordan Mason | RB | – | |
| Austin Keys | LB | – | |
| Brian O’Neill | T | – | |
| T.J. Hockenson | TE | – |
Broader Week 17 Context
While focus remains on Vikings-Lions, other Christmas games see inactives like Cowboys LB DeMarvion Overshown and Commanders QB Jayden Daniels, adding to the holiday drama across the league.[2]
With playoff implications hanging in the balance, fans can expect a gritty affair where depth players step up. Updates on lineups and injuries will continue as kickoff approaches.