The Minnesota Vikings are getting some help back for their beleaguered offensive line.
Vikings offensive lineman Alex Boone returned to practice Wednesday after clearing the NFL’s concussion protocol. Boone was forced to miss Sunday’s overtime 22-16 loss to the Lions after he wasn’t able to get cleared in time to play.
But he returned to practice today and is expected to play on Sunday in Washington.
“Feeling better, thinking straight and clear,” Boone told reporters at Vikings practice.
Boone’s absence meant the Vikings were down to two offensive linemen that began the season as starters – Joe Berger and Brandon Fusco.
He admitted that he wanted to play Sunday, but added that he understands there’s a process to recovery from concussions.
“It’s a brutal game, it is what it is, and sometimes you get hit in the head and things go wrong,” Boone said.
#Vikings Alex Boone is cleared from concussion. Talked of fears that come with concussions. "I know what's going to happen to me some day."
— Chad Graff (@ChadGraff) November 9, 2016
Watching from the sidelines Sunday, Boone said he liked what he saw from the Vikings quick passing game under new offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur.
“I think Shurmur has a good idea of where we are and what we want to do. He’s a little bit different than Norv, but I like what he brings to the table.”
He hopes his return can help the Vikings get things turned around in Washington Sunday.
