Phil Loadholt Is Out for the Season With Torn Pectoral Muscle
By Dan Zinski
Another blow for the embattled Vikings offensive line. According to a report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, right tackle Phil Loadholt will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a torn pectoral muscle.
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Loadholt came out of yesterday’s game late and was replaced by Mike Harris. Loadholt will require surgery to repair the torn muscle.
Harris commented on being pressed into service in place of Loadholt.
"My offense is counting on me to go in there and not miss a beat." -Mike Harris on playing RT w/Loadholt reportedly out for year #Vikings
— Master (@MasterTes) November 24, 2014
Loadholt has struggled at times this year in pass protection – who on the Vikings’ O-line hasn’t – but he’s still been solid against the run.
All things being equal, Loadholt has been way less of a problem than left tackle Matt Kalil.
With Loadholt’s injury, the Vikings have now lost the entire right side of their offensive line. Brandon Fusco went out early in the season, also with a torn pectoral muscle.
The loss of Fusco seemed to throw off Loadholt’s game but in recent weeks he has shown improvement playing alongside experienced journeyman Joe Berger.
Losing two-fifths of your offensive line is never a good thing, but when it happens in the same year you’re trying to break in a rookie quarterback, it’s a really bad thing.
Add in the fact that your left tackle is a total mess and you have the recipe for a true disaster. Good luck Teddy Bridgewater.