If Sunday was an indication of what’s to come this season for the Vikings, then fans better buckle in for a bumpy ride.
According to Viking Update, starting left tackle Matt Kalil injured his leg before walking off on his own power. Kalil is now the fifth starter battling an injury of some sort. The others:
- QB – Teddy Bridgewater (shoulder)
- MLB – Eric Kendricks (hamstring)
- DT – Sharrif Floyd (knee)
- CB – Xavier Rhodes (hamstring)
Adding insult to injury, the Vikings ended practice 40 minutes early after an incredibly sloppy practice. Wide receiver Jarius Wright said head coach Mike Zimmer wasn’t mad, but he wasn’t exactly happy either.
As for Bridgewater, Zimmer says there’s no concern despite ESPN reporting that Bridgewater is dealing with shoulder soreness.
Kalil’s health, however, is of primary concern since he’s protecting Bridgewater’s blindside – and he’s been looking as good as ever so far this season.
“He’s doing a lot of great things,” said Everson Griffen in an interview with the Pioneer Press. “He’s going to hold down the left side for us this year. He’s going to do a great job for us. I know he will.”
Griffen would know. He’s going up against Kalil every day in practice.
With Kalil out the Vikings moved T.J. Clemmings to left tackle and started Andre Smith at right tackle.
The Vikings have Monday off before returning to practice on Tuesday. Preseason game No. 3 is Sunday against the Chargers at U.S. Bank Stadium.
