Vikings might be without Eric Kendricks vs. the Seahawks in Week 5

The talented Minnesota Vikings linebacker is dealing with a foot injury this week.

Pretty much ever since he was given the chance to be a starter as a rookie in 2015, Eric Kendricks has been one of the most important members of the Minnesota Vikings defense.

During the last few years, Kendricks has seen his level of play climb at a rapid rate and he’s developed into one of the best linebackers in the entire NFL. After an All-Pro campaign in 2019, the Vikings linebacker has picked up right where he left off this season and he is currently the league leader in tackles.

After getting their first win of the year against the Houston Texans last week, Minnesota is hoping to pull off a major upset this weekend when they take on the undefeated Seattle Seahawks. Unfortunately, there seems to be a chance that the Vikings might have to face the Seahawks without the help of Kendricks.

Status of Minnesota Vikings linebacker in doubt for Week 5

Getting a win over Seattle was already going to be a very difficult task for Minnesota this week. But the task will become even harder for the Vikings to accomplish if Kendricks is unable to suit up.

The All-Pro linebacker has not participated in either of Minnesota’s two practices this week and on the team’s injury report, he is listed with a foot injury.

On Thursday, he spoke with local Twin Cities reporters and he said that he’s “not really,” concerned about his injured foot and he’s “feeling hopeful,” that he can play in Minnesota’s game against the Seahawks this week.

This will definitely be something to keep an eye on during the next two days. If Kendricks is unable to even be a limited participant during Friday’s practice, the chances of him playing on Sunday don’t look too great.

The Vikings and their linebacker do, however, have the luxury of their game taking place on Sunday night as opposed to earlier in the afternoon. That extra time could potentially make a difference in whether Kendricks plays against Seattle or not.

If he is unable to suit up, Eric Wilson, Ryan Connelly, Hardy Nickerson Jr., and Todd Davis would be the only healthy linebackers left on Minnesota’s active roster. Rookie Cale Garrett is the only linebacker on the Vikings practice squad and he would likely be signed to the active roster before Sunday if Kendricks ends up being ruled out.