EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Adrian Peterson missed his second practice of the week on Thursday, resting the low back injury that flared up in Sunday's win over the Green Bay Packers. But the running back said he'll be "ready to roll" in Sunday's NFC wild-card game against the Seattle Seahawks, and coach Mike Zimmer didn't sound concerned about Peterson being limited.
"It’s the playoffs,” Zimmer said. “He’s ready. He’ll be fine. He’s feeling much, much better.”
Peterson didn't practice the first two days of last week, either, sitting out because of a sprained ankle. But he returned to work on Friday before the Packers game, and carried 19 times for 67 yards in the win, despite missing time with the back injury.
Nose tackle Linval Joseph got some limited work for the second straight day, suggesting he'll be ready to return from a foot injury in time for Sunday's game. Joseph's absence, along with those of linebacker Anthony Barr and safety Harrison Smith, loomed large in the Seahawks' 38-7 win over the Vikings on Dec. 6, when Seattle ran for 173 yards and two touchdowns.
His return comes at a good time, with nose tackle Kenrick Ellis missing his second straight practice because of an ankle injury. Ellis would seem to be the Vikings player most in danger of missing Sunday's game; fullback Zach Line returned from illness on Thursday, defensive end Everson Griffen (shoulder) got some limited work and wide receiver Adam Thielen (shoulder/low back) was a full participant.
