Thielen, Sendejo, Alexander In, Stephen Out
There is some good news this morning on the Vikings injury front. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Adam Thielen, Andrew Sendejo and Mackensie Alexander are all expected to play, despite being officially listed as questionable.
Thielen missed practice Wednesday and was limited Thursday and Friday. According to Rapoport, he suffered small fractures in his back in last week’s win over the Saints, a game in which he recorded six catches for 74 yards. Rapoport also said that sources told him Thielen is under no risk of further damage.
Sendejo’s return is a bit more surprising, given the appearance of the concussion he suffered against the Saints. Sendejo was knocked out after Saints receiver Michael Thomas inadvertently ran into him on a slant route, making contact to Sendejo’s helmet. No flags were thrown on the play, but Sendejo exited and did not return. He has apparently passed concussion protocol, however, and will start. With the Eagles’ reliance on Zach Ertz, Sendejo will likely play a major role, as well.
Rapoport also said Alexander is expected to play, though he missed Friday practice after being limited Wednesday and Thursday. One explanation for the miss could be a day off, as apparently he has been suffering from illness in addition to a rib injury.
Some less encouraging news for the Vikings is that Shamar Stephen has been ruled out. Stephen injured his knee and ankle when players rolled up on his leg last week against New Orleans. He was helped off the field and did not return. The injury leaves the Vikings somewhat thin at defensive tackle as only Tom Johnson and Linval Joseph remain of their regular rotation. Rookie Jaleel Johnson saw limited game action this year but may be called upon to fill in.
Eagles Injury Report
Philadelphia is coming in healthy, aside from the season-ending injury to Carson Wentz. Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe is the only Eagles player with an injury designation. He is listed as questionable with a hamstring injury. Cornerback Sidney Jones and linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill are listed on the injury report, but both will likely be active.
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–Sam Smith is the Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage Vikings and Full Press Coverage NFC North. Like and Follow @samc_smith Follow @fpc_vikingsFollow @fpc_nfcn