Linval Joseph probably won’t play for Vikings vs. Packers

Linval Joseph is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game between the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers.

Friday’s injury report contains some bad news for folks who were hoping the Vikings’ D-line would be at full-strength for Sunday’s NFC North championship game vs. the Packers. On the final report of the week, DT Linval Joseph was listed as doubtful and almost certainly will not play.

Joseph has been battling a foot injury for several weeks but was finally able to return to the field last week against the Giants. Unfortunately Joseph appeared to re-injure his foot during the game and, though he did tough it out for a bit, he was not able to finish out the game.

Not that the Vikings really needed him to destroy the Giants.

Joseph was unable to practice at all during the week and that is normally not a good sign. If Joseph can’t go, the Vikings will proceed with their now-familiar DT rotation of Sharrif Floyd, Tom Johnson and Kenrick Ellis.

The Friday report lists several other players as probable, including Adrian Peterson who continues to deal with ankle and shoulder injuries.

Matt Kalil is listed as probable after inuring his lower leg last week and missing the first snaps of his career.

Next: Cordarrelle Patterson's sauna dance party

Harrison Smith continues to deal with a hamstring and Everson Griffen with a shoulder. Adam Thielen has a low back issue and Anthony Harris a hip problem.

Conspicuous by his absence from the injury report? Linebacker Anthony Barr. So there’s some good news at least.