Andrew Van Ginkel's return has Blake Cashman, Vikings D breathing easier
J.J. McCarthy's return to action in the Vikings' Week 9 win over the Lions drew all the headlines, but it was a return on the opposite side of the ball that helped Minnesota's defense put up one of its best performances of the season.
Vikings starting linebacker Blake Cashman, in a Friday appearance on Good Morning Football , said he loved getting Pro Bowl edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel back against Detroit.
"He adds a little calmness to our defense," said Cashman. "It makes my job a lot easier."
Outside of eight snaps in the Vikings' blowout win over the Bengals in Week 3, Van Ginkel has been out since the team's Week 1 win over Chicago while he recovered from a neck injury. In his return on Sunday, Van Ginkel registered three total tackles, one for a loss, and one QB hit, helping the Vikings turn in one of their best rush defense performances of the year.
Minnesota limited the potent Lions running game to just 65 yards on 20 attempts. It was a massive bounce-back performance for a defense that was gashed on the ground by the Chargers the previous week to the tune of 207 yards. For Detroit, it was their lowest rushing total since their Week 1 loss to the Packers, when they ran for just 46 yards. Van Ginkel was a massive part of that turnaround, posting an 80.6 PFF run defense grade, the highest among pass rushers in Week 9 league-wide.
"We just have such great appreciation for him, because I don't think he gets enough credit for just how smart of a football player he is. His football IQ is at an all-time high level. He adds a lot of value in what he sees and his communication," Cashman said. "So, we're a better football team with him out there."
Minnesota will need a similar level of rush defense this Sunday when it welcomes the Baltimore Ravens to Minneapolis. Dual-threat QB Lamar Jackson is back and healthy, and coming off a four-touchdown performance in Week 9. On top of Jackson's explosive scrambling ability, the Ravens feature five-time Pro Bowl running back Derek Henry, whose 628 rushing yards are the sixth-most in the league heading into Week 10. Baltimore's 5.2 rush yards per attempt is tied with the Jets for the most in the NFL this season.
"You have to be prepared to go 60 minutes and understand it's going to be a long, physical battle. That football team, they have a lot of weapons. Derek Henry is one of the best to do it in this league. He's a big, strong runner," said Cashman.
"As a linebacker, I'm in the mindset that I got to be clean on my run reads and get downhill because you have to stop that train before it gets going."
Cashman indicated the Vikings have used running back Cam Akers as their scout team QB to simulate the dynamic threat of Jackson. Ultimately, it will take an entire team effort to shut down one of the league's best QBs and dynamic rushing threats on Sunday. Van Ginkel's presence will surely help in that effort.
"He's a tremendous football player with a brilliant mind," Cashman said of Van Ginkel.
BREAKING NEWS: Aaron Jones’ Heartwarming Gesture on Flight Stuns Passengers and Leaves Cabin in Tears
In an incredible display of kindness and humility,
“Aaron didn’t want anyone to make a big deal out of it. He just noticed the veteran and decided to give up his seat, but what happened afterward made us all emotional. It wasn’t about the seat—it was the way he treated the veteran with such respect and care.”
— Witness aboard the flight
💥 A Gesture of Respect and Selflessness
Aaron Jones has long been known for his speed and agility on the field, but his heartwarming off-field behavior has now made headlines.
The veteran, a man in his 70s, was deeply touched by the gesture. He had been struggling to find a seat in the economy class when Jones noticed him and immediately offered his own first-class seat
Witnesses onboard began to realize what had just happened, and soon, the story spread throughout the cabin. Flight attendants, who had witnessed the exchange, were visibly moved by Jones’ actions, and passengers were soon talking about his generosity. However, the most touching part of the experience came after the veteran was seated.
🌟 The Unseen Act of Compassion
What set Jones’ gesture apart was not just the act of giving up his seat, but what he did next—quietly checking in on the veteran during the flight, offering him a drink, and ensuring his comfort without making a fuss
As the flight continued, it became clear to everyone around that Jones wasn’t just giving up a seat—he was demonstrating the true meaning of empathy and sportsmanship. The flight attendants were so moved by his actions that they thanked him multiple times, expressing their admiration for his generosity.
💙 A True Role Model
While Aaron Jones is undoubtedly one of the best players in the NFL, it’s moments like these that show his true character. His gesture wasn’t about the spotlight or gaining recognition; it was about showing respect to a man who had served the country.
The incident quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising Jones for his humility and compassion. His actions have sparked a broader conversation about kindness, respect, and the importance of using our positions of privilege to make a difference.
🚀 A Legacy of Giving Back
Aaron Jones’ actions have not only inspired fans but also served as a powerful reminder of the impact of simple acts of kindness. In a world often dominated by headlines of controversy and competition, Jones has proven that real leadership is shown through selflessness.
As news of his gesture spreads, it serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that small acts of kindness can change lives and create ripple effects that go far beyond any football field. His ability to combine his star power with genuine compassion is a lesson for all to follow.
