When the Vikings face the Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium on Christmas Eve, veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks hopes to be the one rushing out of the tunnel in full pads.

Hicks, who suffered a near-fatal case of compartment syndrome last month, was cleared to return from injured reserve last week, which was encouraging news. “That’s the hope,” he said when asked whether he intended to return for this weekend’s game against the Lions.

Hicks is now occupied with getting himself into playing condition, and on Tuesday at TCO Performance Center, he will be present but in a restricted capacity during practice. Hicks has increased his physical activity over time, but up until now he hasn’t done anything with his colleagues.

He said, “Obviously, I haven’t played football yet.” “We must observe its reaction.”

Considering that Hicks had to be sent to the hospital last month, it’s amazing that he’s already back on the field. While tackling Saints running back Alvin Kamara on November 12, he had a shin contusion that resulted in compartment syndrome, necessitating immediate surgery to relieve the swelling.

Hicks stated there’s a serious possibility he might have lost his leg if the Vikings hadn’t identified the issue and taken action as soon as they did after the game. Hicks thanked everyone who ensured everything happened as planned, even as he considered the disastrous consequences.

“This scenario ended up working out perfectly because it had so many different factors and variables,” he remarked. “I’ve heard a ton of stories that don’t support that.”

Hicks never once considered hanging up his cleats in the aftermath.

He wanted a game plan that would get him back on the field as quickly as possible after his surgery last month. With all of his might, he tackled his recuperation to make sure he would return in time to support the Vikings in their last stretch drive toward the postseason.

Hick remarked, “I didn’t have a lot of time to process.” This week, I believe, will be the first that I’ve actually taken the time to sit down and consider the possibility that things could have gone horribly wrong. I haven’t given in to that emotion. It has always been about changing perspective and returning to the field.

When discussing Hicks, defensive coordinator Brian Flores emphasized his toughness.

Flores remarked, “He’s done an amazing job getting back.” It was quite serious, and the fact that he is here today speaks volumes about the sort of guy he is and the significance of this to him.

Even though Ivan Pace Jr., a rookie linebacker, has shown promise recently, Hicks’ depth of experience might be very helpful as the Vikings attempt to position themselves for the postseason.

Safety Josh Metellus stated, “He leads our defense for a reason.” “He has a soothing presence outside.”

The training staff, which is overseen by Tyler Williams and Uriah Myrie, will probably decide in the end whether or not Hicks plays on Sunday. Presumably, Hicks will be pushing to play regardless of the outcome. Ever since he ended up in the ambulance’s back, he had been waiting for this moment.

Hicks remarked, “Watching football at home is no fun.” “I can’t wait to get back out there,”

If he really is running out of tunnel, how does he think that experience will be?

Hicks remarked, “I’m very grateful and blessed.” “It will probably be quite emotional when it’s game time, whether that’s this week, next week, or at any other time.”

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