Vikings Defeat Resting Packers 16–3 as McCarthy Exits with Another Injury.

The Minnesota Vikings closed out their 2025 regular season with a 16–3 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday in Minneapolis, extending their winning streak to five games despite having been eliminated from playoff contention weeks earlier.mQuarterback J.J. McCarthy delivered a solid first-half performance, completing 14 of 23 passes for 182 yards, before leaving early in the third quarter due to soreness in his throwing hand. McCarthy’s season was disrupted by multiple injuries, limiting his availability after knee surgery cost him his rookie year. Backup quarterback Max Brosmer finished the game and helped wide receiver Justin Jefferson surpass 100 receiving yards for the first time in 12 games. Green Bay rested nearly all of its starters after clinching the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs. With Jordan Love sidelined and Malik Willis still recovering, quarterback Clayton Tune made just his second career start. The Packers’ offense struggled throughout the game, finishing with negative passing yards and managing only a late field goal to avoid a shutout. Minnesota’s defense dominated, recording four sacks and forcing Green Bay to punt on eight of its first nine possessions. Dallas Turner led the effort with two sacks, contributing to 41 total yards lost by the Packers. Jefferson’s performance secured his sixth consecutive 1,000-yard receiving season, placing him among only three players in NFL history to reach that milestone. Fullback C.J. Ham scored Minnesota’s lone touchdown and received multiple ovations from the home crowd, as he may have played his final game with the team ahead of free agency. Veteran safety Harrison Smith was also honored by fans amid uncertainty about his future, despite being under contract for the 2026 season.

Several injuries affected both teams. Minnesota tight end Josh Oliver exited with an ankle injury, while Green Bay receiver Bo Melton and defensive back Javon Bullard left the game with knee issues. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur expressed confidence that Bullard’s injury was not serious. The Packers will travel next weekend for a wild-card matchup against either Chicago or Philadelphia, while the Vikings turn their attention to offseason roster decisions and the upcoming NFL Draft, where they will hold a mid–first-round selection.