Kendricks out; Barr questionable, but expected to play

November 6, 2015 at 7:45PM
Eric Kendricks (54)
Eric Kendricks (54) (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

The Vikings will have to tackle Rams rookie sensation without the services of starting middle linebacker and NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month Eric Kendricks. The team has listed him as out for Sunday's game with injured ribs and will give Audie Cole his first start of the season.

Also out are defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd (knee/ankle) and defensive end Justin Trattou (foot).

However, on a positive note, it does appear that linebacker Anthony Barr will play on Sunday, although he's officially listed as questionable. Barr missed the first two days of practice this week, but coach Mike Zimmer said he was, "full go" in today's non-padded workout.

Everyone else on the injury report is listed as probable. They are Cole (finger), defensive tackle Tom Johnson (knee), defensive end Everson Griffen (neck), safety Harrison Smith (neck), receiver Stefon Diggs (hamstring), tight end Rhett Ellison (concussion), offensive tackle T.J. Clemmings (neck) and center Joe Berger (chest).

Here's what Zimmer had to say about Cole before the team released its injury report: "He's a smart guy. He's very passionate about his job. He's always look for an opportunity to show what he can do. Most of the time when he's had those opportunities, he's done well. He takes a lot of pride in his job. He's a team guy. He brings a lot of value to us, regardless of what he's doing, whether it's special teams or defense or whatever."

about the writer

about the writer

Mark Craig

Sports reporter

Mark Craig has covered the NFL nearly every year since Brett Favre was a rookie back in 1991. A sports writer since 1987, he is covering his 30th NFL season out of 37 years with the Canton (Ohio) Repository (1987-99) and the Star Tribune (1999-present).

See More