Vikings running back Adrian Peterson took it easy during practice this week after spraining his ankle against the Bears last Sunday, but no one from the team ever expressed any concern that he was going to miss this weekend’s game against the Giants.
That lack of concern extended to Friday when Peterson returned to practice and was listed as a full participant. Peterson, who is the NFL’s leading rusher with a nine-yard lead over Doug Martin, was subsequently listed as probable to play in the game.
Safety Harrison Smith, linebacker Anthony Barr and defensive tackle Linval Joseph are also probable after missing most or all of the last three games because of injuries.
Depending on the results on Saturday night and earlier on Sunday, the game may either hold playoff implications for both teams or may kick off with the Vikings already sure that they are headed to the postseason and the Giants knowing that they can’t get there. There could still be NFC North implications for the Vikings, who face the Packers in Week 17.
Regardless of how the other games play out, Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said he’s not going to rest any starters so Peterson and the returning defenders should be front and center come Sunday night.