The Minnesota Vikings have been handed a huge boost with the news that wide receiver Adam Thielen and safety Andrew Sendejo are both expected to play in their big NFC Championship Game showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles.
#Vikings WR Adam Thielen (lower back) is expected to play today against the #Eagles, despite being in plenty of pain, sources say. He's going to gut it out. … CB Mackensie Alexander (rib, illness) and S Andrew Sendejo (concussion) should play, as well.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 21, 2018
Thielen, who has played every single game for the Vikings since signing on as an undrafted free agent in 2014, missed a day of practice this week due to a lower back injury. Sendejo has practiced, but his status has been in doubt due to the nature of his injury. He suffered a concussion against the New Orleans Saints which ruled him out for the rest of that game.
Thielen’s presence will be a major plus for the Vikings’ offense. Thielen is the team’s top receiver this season as he finished with 91 catches for 1,276 receiving yards, both career-highs, and earned first-team All-Pro honors. Thielen had six catches for 74 yards against the Saints.
But with Thielen’s back likely to hinder him from playing at an All-Pro level, even more responsibility will be thrust upon “Minneapolis Miracle” hero Stefon Diggs. Diggs finished second behind Thielen on the team with 64 catches and 849 but tied for the team lead with eight touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Sendejo’s availability at the safety spot will be important for the Vikings defense. The 30-year-old has been one of the main factors for Minnesota’s success against the pass this season. That was made evident by New Orleans’ success passing the ball after he left the game.
If Sendejo can’t go, inexperienced second-year player Jayron Kearse will have to take over at strong safety alongside Harrison Smith.
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