Vikings rule out Alex Boone, Eric Kendricks for Sunday's game
Alex Boone and Eric Kendricks will not play this weekend.
The Vikings this afternoon officially ruled out both players for Sunday’s game against the Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium. Boone, the team’s starting left guard, is dealing with shoulder and knee injuries in addition to a concussion. Kendricks, their middle linebacker, also has a concussion.
Both were forced to sit out practice all week due to the concussions they sustained during Monday night’s loss to the Bears.
Jeremiah Sirles is expected to start at left guard in place of Boone.
Kendricks played all 61 snaps against the Bears and afterward was placed in the concussion protocol. Veteran linebacker Chad Greenway took Kendricks’ spot alongside Anthony Barr in a walkthrough of the nickel defense today. Middle linebacker Audie Cole could see time in the base defense.
It’s a tough week for the Vikings to handle a linebacker injury as they prepare for Lions running back Theo Riddick, who is a key part of Detroit’s passing game. Riddick is third among all backs in receptions and leads them all with four touchdown grabs.
The Vikings will likely get back running back Jerick McKinnon (ankle) against the Lions. He practiced for a second consecutive day today, and while he is officially listed as questionable, he said he expects to play. They need all the help they can get for the NFL’s worst-ranked rushing attack.
Safety Andrew Sendejo (ankle) and defensive tackle Tom Johnson (concussion) were also listed as questionable. Sendejo practiced every day this week. Johnson was a limited participant both yesterday and today.
Guard Zac Kerin (hand) and defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd (knee) were also officially ruled out after being held out of practice all week.
Cornerback Marcus Sherels (wrist), outside linebacker Anthony Barr (groin) and cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (foot) will all play Sunday.