The Minnesota Vikings are not playing today, Sunday, October 18, 2026, because they are on their scheduled bye week during Week 6 of the 2026 NFL season.
Minnesota has the weekend off after an impressive 5-0 start to the season, giving players additional time to rest, recover, and prepare for their next matchup.
The Vikings will return to action on Sunday, October 25, when they host the Indianapolis Colts in Week 7.
Why Are the Minnesota Vikings Not Playing in Week 6?
The Minnesota Vikings are enjoying their scheduled bye week, which means they do not have a game on the NFL schedule for October 18.
Under the NFL’s 18-week regular-season format, each team plays 17 games and receives one bye week.
The break provides an opportunity for players dealing with injuries to recover, while the coaching staff can evaluate the team’s performance and prepare for the remainder of the season.
Minnesota enters its bye week with a perfect 5-0 record after defeating the New Orleans Saints 23-13 on October 11.
When Is the Minnesota Vikings’ Next Game?
The Vikings return to the field in Week 7 against the Indianapolis Colts.
Here are the details for Minnesota’s next scheduled game:
- Matchup: Indianapolis Colts at Minnesota Vikings
- Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
- Week: NFL Week 7
- Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
- Location: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- TV Channel: CBS
The Vikings will look to remain undefeated when they face Indianapolis in front of their home crowd.
Which Other NFL Teams Have a Bye in Week 6?
The Minnesota Vikings are not the only team taking a break during Week 6 of the 2026 NFL season.
The following teams have a scheduled bye week:
- Minnesota Vikings
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Detroit Lions
- Miami Dolphins
These teams will not play on Sunday, October 18, and will resume their regular-season schedules in Week 7.
How Does the Vikings’ Bye Week Affect Their Season?
Minnesota’s Week 6 bye comes at an important point in the regular season.
After winning their first five games, the Vikings have an opportunity to regroup before continuing their push toward the NFL playoffs.
The additional preparation time could help Minnesota address injuries, make adjustments on offense and defense, and prepare for upcoming NFC matchups.
Maintaining momentum after the bye will be important as the Vikings attempt to remain among the top teams in the NFC standings.
Are the Minnesota Vikings Playing on Monday Night Football?
No. The Vikings are not scheduled to play on Monday Night Football on October 19, 2026.
The Week 6 Monday Night Football matchup features the Washington Commanders visiting the San Francisco 49ers at 8:15 p.m. ET.
Minnesota’s next game remains its Week 7 meeting with Indianapolis on October 25.
Minnesota Vikings Week 6 Bye Week: Frequently Asked Questions
Why aren’t the Vikings playing today, October 18, 2026?
The Vikings are on their scheduled Week 6 bye and do not have a game this weekend.
Are the Vikings eliminated from the playoffs?
No. Minnesota is undefeated at 5-0 entering its bye week and remains in contention for the NFC playoffs.
When do the Vikings play again?
Minnesota’s next game is Sunday, October 25, 2026, against the Indianapolis Colts.
What time is the Vikings’ next game?
The Vikings and Colts are scheduled to kick off at 1:00 p.m. ET.
Where can I watch the Vikings’ next game?
The Vikings’ Week 7 matchup against the Colts is scheduled to air on CBS, subject to regional broadcast availability.
Final Thoughts
The Minnesota Vikings are not playing on October 18 because of their scheduled Week 6 bye, not because of a cancellation or postponement.
With a 5-0 record, Minnesota will use the break to prepare for the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, October 25, at 1:00 p.m. ET.
The Vikings will look to continue their undefeated run as the 2026 NFL regular season moves toward its midpoint.