Cedric Griffin Won’t be Ready for the Season Opener

Cedric Griffin suffered an ACL tear during the NFC Championship Game, and has still not recovered sufficiently to participate in practice.

Because of his on-going physical issues, the Vikings have placed Griffin on the PUP list.  Now we have learned that the cornerback will still not be ready when the Vikings open the 2010 season in New Orleans September 9.

Of course, given the severity of his injury, we anticipated Griffin perhaps not being able to start the season.  And the Vikings did too, which is why they signed Lito Sheppard.

The way things look now, Sheppard will be starting in Griffin’s place to begin the year.  Antoine Winfield is still expected to line up opposite him at left corner, but there has been talk in camp that Winfield’s diminishing speed may force him to move inside and play nickel.

If Winfield is indeed unable to resume his duties as an outside corner, the Vikes would likely start Benny Sapp in his place.  However, rookie Chris Cook has been making a big impression early in camp, albeit against second-team competition, and may push Sapp before it’s over.

I have to believe Brad Childress will give Cook more reps against the first team as camp goes forward.  Meanwhile, Sapp has suffered dehydration and cramping issues the first few days, and was reportedly not on the practice field for Monday morning’s session.

The stars seem to be aligning for Chris Cook.  Now we’ll see if he is able to take advantage.

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