Former Vikings Players Chase Super Bowl Dreams in NFL Divisional Round

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — While the Minnesota Vikings’ 2024 season ended in disappointment, several former players are still in the hunt for a Super Bowl ring as the NFL Divisional Round kicks off this weekend. Eight teams remain in the playoffs, with five of them featuring at least one former Viking on their roster.

Among the notable names are Danielle Hunter, Teddy Bridgewater, and Irv Smith Jr., who will take the field for their respective teams. Hunter, now with the Houston Texans, has been a standout pass rusher this season, while Bridgewater, playing for the Detroit Lions, aims to lead his team to victory against the Washington Commanders.

On Saturday, the Houston Texans face the Kansas City Chiefs at 3:30 p.m. CST. Hunter, who spent eight seasons with the Vikings, has been instrumental for the Texans this year. In their first-round playoff win over the Los Angeles Chargers, Hunter recorded five pressures and three tackles. “Danielle has been a game-changer for us,” said Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans. “His ability to disrupt offenses is unmatched.”

Later that evening, the Detroit Lions host the Washington Commanders at 7:00 p.m. CST. The game features seven former Vikings players, including Bridgewater and Za’Darius Smith. Bridgewater, a former Vikings first-round pick, has embraced his role as a veteran leader for the Lions. “Teddy brings a calmness and experience that’s invaluable,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell.

On Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Los Angeles Rams at 2:00 p.m. CST. Former Vikings safety Lewis Cine, a first-round pick in 2022, recently joined the Eagles after spending most of the season on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad. His role in the game remains uncertain, but his presence adds depth to the Eagles’ secondary.

Finally, the Baltimore Ravens face the Buffalo Bills at 5:30 p.m. CST. Defensive tackle Michael Pierce, who rejoined the Ravens after a stint with the Vikings, is a key part of Baltimore’s dominant defense. “Michael has been a force in the middle,” said Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald. “He’s a big reason why we’re here.”

For many of these players, the Divisional Round represents a chance to continue their journey toward a Super Bowl ring. Whether they’re household names or lesser-known contributors, their paths all trace back to Minnesota, where their NFL careers began.