No Injury Designations for Eric Kendricks, Dalvin Cook
Josh Frey
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Eric Kendricks (calf) and Dalvin Cook (ankle) have been limited in practice throughout the week due to injuries in the Carolina game, but good news came on Friday. Both players practiced in full, and they do not have an injury designation heading into Sunday’s contest with Jacksonville. Kendricks was key in last week’s comeback win, intercepting his third pass in four games. Cook’s injury seemed to be more impactful as he was held to just 61 rushing yards.
Another player set to make his return to the field this week is Ezra Cleveland. Cleveland has missed the last two games with an ankle injury. This is coming after the rookie made four consecutive starts from week six to week 10. However, Mike Zimmer said that the lineman should be “all systems go” on Sunday.
However, two notable players missing Sunday’s game are Irv Smith and D.J. Wonnum. Smith, who was also out against Carolina, recently had a huge impact in the win over Detroit where he caught two touchdown passes.
It seems like Smith’s injury is separate from the groin injury that kept him out last week. The tight end’s ailment is his back, and according to Zimmer, it is a new problem. The Vikings are hoping that, in the meantime, Brandon Dillon continues to provide depth at the position. Dillon recorded his first career catch last week.
As for Wonnum, the rookie is out with a combination of ankle and back problems. He has brought some much needed production to the Vikings’ defensive line this season, especially with Danielle Hunter’s injury keeping him sidelined. Wonnum recorded a QB hit and pass deflection last week and has recorded three sacks and a forced fumble this season.