The Vikings could be missing a couple of key starters as they try to keep their playoff hopes alive on Sunday against the New York Jets.
Minnesota has ruled leading-rusher Jerick McKinnon out for a second straight game because of a lower-back injury. McKinnon hasn’t practiced all week because of the ailment.
Pro Football Talk notes that McKinnon leads the team with 538 rushing yards and 113 carries. Matt Asiata, Joe Banyard and Ben Tate will see larger roles in the offense with McKinnon on the bench.
Unfortunately, it’s not just the Vikings offense that’s missing a key part.
Linebacker Anthony Barr also missed practice on Friday and is listed as doubtful.
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Barr’s absence could be a big loss for the defense as his play has created some buzz for rookie of the year.
The Vikings’ first-round draft pick has started all 12 games this season, recording 70 tackles and four sacks.
According to the Star Tribune, if Barr is unable to go Gerald Hodges will start in his place.
Hodges started three games earlier this season when Chad Greenway was out with a ribs injury.
“The one thing with linebackers in this league, if you’re a backup linebacker, you have to be able to play all the positions because of what happens on game day,” Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer told reporters. “You might have five linebackers. You might have six. And if something happens you’ve got to be prepared to go in at different positions. They’re all similar, but there are differences.”
Defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd has also been limited in practice this week because of a knee injury; but the team listed him as probable.
Reserve cornerback Jabari Price is doubtful.
