Joe

Berger

The 29-year-old Berger has 20 career starts, mostly at guard and center. He’s a more experienced option than Cooper, but will ideally be a reserve only.

Joe Berger will get the start once again. The Vikings didn’t miss Herrera in Week 8, racking up 361 yards of offense in a win over the Panthers.

He will undergo NFL-mandated testing to determine his status for Week 7, and backup Joe Berger has replaced him tonight. RT Phil Loadholt (knee) has also left the game and is questionable to return. Pat Brown has replaced Loadholt, as the Vikings’ line is crumbling amidst a 33-10 route midway through the third quarter.

It’s a minimum deal for Berger, who started seven games in 2011 but none last season. He’ll serve as interior depth once again.

The idea is surprising, as the Fins were a much better rushing offense when Grove was in the lineup last year. He was also given a $30 million contract last offseason. Joe Berger and Grove are sharing first-team reps during OTAs. Berger did play well in spot duty last season, and is two years younger.

He was entering the last year of his contract. We’re still waiting on the details but Berger is likely in for a big raise after earning PFF’s highest center grade in 2015.

It’s yet another offensive line injury for the Vikes. Berger is week to week. Nick Easton will start in his absence.

Berger was knocked out in the first half of Minnesota’s Thanksgiving game against the Lions. Nick Easton will finish the game at the pivot.