Vikings Place Audie Cole on IR, Sign Free Agent LB Jason Trusnik
The revolving door at linebacker continues for the Minnesota Vikings, who just placed Audie Cole on Injured Reserve and signed free agent Jason Trusnik to the active roster. Cole, who broke his ankle against the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, will miss the remainder of the 2015 season.
Trusnik comes to Minnesota after stints with the Carolina Panthers, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, and New York Jets. The former Ohio Northern Klondike was an undrafted free agent following the 2007 NFL Draft and has played in 109 career games (24 starts), tallying 146 total tackles, 4 PDs, 4 FRs and 1 FF in eight seasons.
Rookie linebacker Eric Kendricks missed Sunday’s game, but spoke to reporters on Monday following Vikings practice at Winter Park. “I’m feeling good, but I’m still going to take it day-by-day,” Kendricks said, per the Star Tribune’s Jason Gonzalez. “I’m doing my best to get better. I’m in treatment every day. I’m listening to my body at this point.” Kendricks either bruised or fractured his ribs two weeks ago, but couldn’t comment on the severity of his injury.
His questionable status and Cole’s injury leave the Vikings thin at linebacker heading into Week 10. Anthony Barr was seen with a cast on his left arm after the victory on Sunday, but Zimmer told reporters that the second-year linebacker will be ready to go this week. Brandon Watts and Edmond Robinson may see more playing time in Minnesota’s base packages if Kendricks cannot play against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday.