Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon had a pretty solid rookie year. After Adrian Peterson had his legal issues and Matt Asiata struggled with injuries, McKinnon took the ball and ran with it…literally. Sadly, he wasn’t able to finish the season with the Vikings and ended up on injured reserve with a back issue.
Nov 2, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon (31) celebrates his run against the Washington Redskins in the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 29-26. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Although he didn’t find the end zone, Jerick McKinnon still averaged 4.8 yards per carry and 5.0 yards per catch. With Matt Asiata becoming a free agent this year and Adrian Peterson’s status still up in the air, McKinnon will need to be ready in case he will have to take on a big role for the team if needed for the 2015 NFL season.
According at an article on the Star Tribune website, Jerick McKinnon’s back rehabilitation is going well. Here’s what McKinnon said in a quote from the article:
"“It’s been pretty good. It’s been a long process, but that’s just the way it goes after surgery. I’ve been here all offseason working really hard. I’ve just been in the training room with (assistant athletic trainer) Tom Hunkele pushing myself to the limit and just trying to get back ready. It’s been a long grind but it’s definitely working.”"
The rehabilitation that Jerick McKinnon has been doing on his back sounds like it is going well for the young running back. Still, that doesn’t mean that he’s content to wait and see how things work out. He will continue working hard and improving his game.
"“I was happy with how the season went. It was a blessing, just being able to play in the NFL, a dream come true,” he said. “I took it for what it was. I’m happy but I’m not content.”"
It’s good to know that Jerick McKinnon takes his training and his rehabilitation seriously. Fans should take comfort in knowing that he will be available if needed for the 2015 season.
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