Jerick McKinnon Named Vikings' Starting RB After Adrian Peterson's Injury

With Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson out due to a knee injury, it was announced Wednesday that Jerick McKinnon will start Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. 

Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer revealed the news via the team's official Twitter account.

Peterson told ESPN's Josina Anderson on Wednesday he will undergo surgery Thursday to repair his meniscus. Although no official timetable has been released for his return, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported he may not be back until December at the earliest.

In Peterson's absence, McKinnon is in line to receive most of the touches, with Matt Asiata also contributing.

McKinnon has just three rushes for eight yards so far this season, but he rushed for 271 yards and two touchdowns on 5.2 yards per carry in 2015 to go along with 21 receptions for 173 yards and one touchdown as a backup.

His most extensive action came as a rookie in 2014, as the third-round pick started six games during Peterson's season-long suspension, and he racked up 673 total yards.

Asiata scored 10 touchdowns that year, and while he figures to have a significant role within Minnesota's offense, the fact that his career yards-per-carry average is 3.5 suggests he won't be counted on to carry the load.

In addition to McKinnon and Asiata, the Vikings announced the signing of former Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman on Wednesday.

The speedy McKinnon's skill set differs from that of the powerful Peterson, but he is a big play waiting to happen, as evidenced by a career yards-per-carry average of 4.9.

Although replacing one of the greatest running backs in NFL history will be a huge challenge, McKinnon adds a much needed dynamic element that should aid quarterback Sam Bradford as he continues to get acclimated to his new team.

McKinnon has proven effective when called upon in the past, and if the 2-0 Vikings are going to repeat as NFC North champions and make a playoff run, they'll need him to become a huge part of the offense.

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