The Minnesota Vikings have dealt with quite a few injuries and strange circumstances this year. While some of those players have ended up on Injured Reserve, ending their year, others could make their return in week 11 of the NFL season after the team returns from their bye.
Two very high profile players could be back for week 11 when the Vikings are scheduled to take on the Bears in Chicago. Here are those two:
Kyle Rudolph – Tight End
Aug 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph (82) looks on during the fourth quarter against the Oakland Raiders at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Raiders 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
After playing the first three games of the regular season, Kyle Rudolph had hernia surgery that has kept him sidelined. In his place, Chase Ford has played well, but a healthy Rudolph would be a huge asset for rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
He signed a massive contract extension this summer, and because of that, expectations were very high for the exceptionally athletic tight end. The deal was worth $36.5 million over 5 years, a huge amount for a player whose production didn’t warrant a contract that large.
Still, when healthy, Kyle Rudolph can be a game changer. He provides a big bodied target in the passing game that is always a threat in the red zone.
While there is a chance that Rudolph will be able to return, he won’t come back until he is completely healthy. Hopefully, that will be week 11 in Chicago.
Adrian Peterson – Running Back
Sep 7, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) carries the ball against the St. Louis Rams during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
If you had asked many fans about the possibility of superstar running back Adrian Peterson returning to the Vikings at all this season, they most likely would have been doubtful. Now, the discussion has begun about whether or not Peterson will be available for week 11.
Adrian Peterson agreed to a plea deal on Tuesday in his child endangerment case, resulting in a misdemeanor charge and a fine. As it currently stands, it will be up to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to decide when the appropriate time to remove him from the Exempt/Commissioner’s Permission List.
The entire Minnesota Vikings offense was built around Peterson this offseason. His return, along with Kyle Rudolph’s, would really help bolster a struggling Minnesota Vikings offense.
Do you think Rudolph will be back for week 11? Will Adrian Peterson return? Discuss your opinions in the comments below.