Nick Mullens threw a touchdown pass to Trishton Jackson, leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 27-12 victory over the Cleveland Browns in a preseason game on Saturday. The Vikings are now 2-0 in the preseason. Jaren Hall, the third-string QB for Minnesota, also contributed to the win with two second-half scoring passes, including a 71-yard touchdown to Jeshaun Jones. Rookie kicker Will Reichard added two field goals for the Vikings.
For the Browns, D’Onta Foreman scored a 1-yard touchdown, and Cade York kicked a 33-yard field goal. Both teams opted to rest their starters and most backups, following joint practices earlier in the week.
Deshaun Watson of the Browns and Jameis Winston sat out the game, with Watson scheduled to return next week after recovering from a shoulder injury. The Vikings faced a setback earlier in the week when their rookie QB J.J. McCarthy suffered a season-ending knee injury, solidifying Sam Darnold as the starting QB for the upcoming season.
Mullens, who filled in as a backup for the injured McCarthy, impressed with a touchdown pass on the opening drive. Cleveland’s Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Tyler Huntley also showcased their skills at QB during the game. Minnesota’s rookie cornerback Dwight McGlothern made a notable play with a 90-yard interception return for a touchdown.
Despite off-field issues, including domestic violence charges, Browns’ rookie Mike Hall Jr. played in the game. Hall was charged after an incident with his fiancée but pleaded not guilty in court. The NFL may conduct an investigation into the matter.
In terms of injuries, the Browns faced challenges with several players limping off the field, including LT James Hudson, Germain Ifedi, and Hakeem Adeniji. The Vikings reported no injuries.
Up next, the Vikings will play the Eagles on August 24, while the Browns will face the Seahawks on the same day.