Eric Kendricks Injury: Updates on Vikings LB's Ribs and Return

Minnesota Vikings rookie linebacker Eric Kendricks missed the team's Week 9 game because of a rib injury, but he is ready to play.

Continue for updates.

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Kendricks Active for Week 11

Sunday, Nov. 22

The Vikings announced that Kendricks was available to play against the Green Bay Packers.

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Latest on Kendricks' Practice Status

Friday, Nov. 20

The Vikings announced Kendricks was a full participant in practice this week.

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What Kendricks' Presence Means for Vikings

Kendricks has become a vital part of the Vikings' linebacker corps, recording four sacks in his last four games and earning Defensive Rookie of the Month honors for October, according to Darin Gantt of Pro Football Talk. 

He was thrust into the role after the Vikings traded Gerald Hodges, who started the first four games of the season, to the San Francisco 49ers in early October.

Veteran Chad Greenway isn't going to coddle the rookie, who has exceeded expectations so far.

"I thought he’s done pretty well," he told Matt Vensel of the Star Tribune. "Obviously, it’s a little bit of baptism by fire, but it’s time to go play. ... You have to go out there and get the experience at some point. So this is going to be his position to go out and play."

Audie Cole recently started in place of Kendricks, but he has since been placed on injured reserve with a fractured ankle. The Vikings recently signed veteran Jason Trusnik to add some depth to what is now a depleted linebacker corps, according to Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com.