Week 4 Injury Report: Vikings list starting guard OUT
Sean Borman
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The Vikings will face one of the NFL’s fiercest defensive fronts on Sunday and they’ll do so without a starting member of their offensive line. Right guard Josh Kline will miss the Week 4 contest as he recovers from a concussion that he suffered during the team’s Week 3 matchup against the Raiders. He’ll miss his first game in 49 consecutive starts, which was the longest streak among active guards in the league. Dakota Dozier, who filled in at left guard for Pat Elflein in Week 2, will take Kline’s place as the starting right guard.
Special teams ace and backup linebacker Kentrell Brothers (wrist/hamstring) was also listed as out. Cornerback Mackensie Alexander, who dislocated his elbow in the season opener versus Atlanta, was listed as questionable. He’ll look to return after missing the last two games with the arm injury. Should he play, Alexander will share snaps with Mike Hughes at nickelback.
Chicago will be without a main contributor on offense as wide receiver Taylor Gabriel, who caught three touchdown passes last week, is out with a concussion. The Bears could also be without a key member of their defensive front as it’s been reported all week that defensive tackle Akiem Hicks (knee) will be a game-time decision.
Tight end Trey Burton (groin) and guard Kyle Long (hip) were also listed as questionable as was kicker Eddy Pineiro (knee), who despite the injury designation will likely be able to play on Sunday. Here’s a look at both team’s injury reports:
Minnesota Vikings
OUT
- Josh Kline, guard – concussion
- Kentrell Brothers, wrist/hamstring
QUESTIONABLE
- Mackensie Alexander, cornerback – elbow
Chicago Bears
OUT
- Taylor Gabriel, wide receiver – concussion
- Bilal Nichols, defensive tackle – hand
QUESTIONABLE
- Akiem Hicks, defensive tackle – knee
- Eddy Pineiro, kicker – right knee
- Kyle Long, guard – hip
- Trey Burton, tight end – groin