Kevin O'Connell "optimistic" about key player's status

Kevin O'Connell is hopeful that one of his key defenders will be able to go on Monday Night Football. 

Akayleb Evans has been listed as questionable due to an oblique injury. The corner has been one of the most reliable cover men for the Vikings. 

When asked about the corner, O'Connell said he is "cautiously optimistic." 

"He had a good week, and you always want to, just with the type of thing he was dealing with, you want to be cautious, but I am cautiously optimistic that he’ll be ready to roll," explained O'Connell. 

Evans has received a solid 67.2 PFF grade for his performance this season. The corner has 32 tackles, two forced fumbles, and three pass defenses this season. 

Minnesota's passing defense has been much improved in 2023. The seconday from 2022 was near the bottom of the league in every category, but the 2023 unit ranks No. 17 in opponent passing yards per game. 

Even with Evans, the Vikes will be in for a tough matchup against the 49ers. The Niners are averaging 223 passing yards per game and are sixth in average yards per game. 

If Evans can't go, expect to see more of the rookie Mekhi Blackmon with some Andrew Booth Jr. as well.