EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (KMSP) - Sam Bradford has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer confirmed Friday. Bradford was not seen on the practice field during the media window Friday, with Case Keenum and Kyle Sloter taking reps.
“I tell you I don’t have a crystal ball, I have no idea,” Zimmer said, when asked about Bradford's future availability. “All I know is about this week.”
No other Vikings appear on this week’s final injury report. Mackensie Alexander (wrist), Anthony Barr (hamstring), Pat Elflein (ankle) and Xavier Rhodes (hip) were all listed on the report throughout the week but are not listed on the final injury report.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Bradford said his left knee is feeling better this week after missing last Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was limited last week, due to soreness and swelling. After going through pregame warmups at Pittsburgh, Bradford was ruled out. Case Keenum took over at quarterback for the Vikings, who lost 26-9 to the Steelers.
Bradford said he injured the knee in the season opener against New Orleans, when he had a career-best 143.0 passer rating in leading the Vikings to a 29-19 victory over the Saints. Bradford has twice had his left ACL surgically repaired.
ESPN reported Bradford is seeking a second opinion on his injured knee from renowned knee expert Dr. James Andrews.