Vikings rule Pierce, Jones out for Cowboys game; Westbrook questionable
Vikings DT Michael Pierce stands during practice.[KSTP]
The Minnesota Vikings will once again be without a defensive starter for Sunday night’s Halloween matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.
After not practicing all week, the team officially ruled defensive tackle Michael Pierce out of Sunday’s game. The team also ruled out rookie defensive end Patrick Jones II, who may have been in line to receive playing time after the team traded veteran Stephen Weatherly to the Denver Broncos last week.
Additionally, wide receiver and returner Dede Westbrook was listed as questionable due to an ankle injury. He didn’t practice early in the week but participated on a limited basis on Friday. Tight end Ben Ellefson was also placed on the injured reserve list on Thursday.
The good news for Minnesota is linebacker Anthony Barr, wide receiver Adam Thielen and running back Alexander Mattison were full participants in Thursday and Friday practices and are expected to play Sunday.
The Vikings are coming off a bye week and enter Sunday’s game with a record of 3-3.