Asher

Allen

Marcus Sherels replaces Allen in the slot. Cook is still on indefinite leave from the Vikings with pay. Both Allen and Hutchinson suffered concussions in last week’s loss to the Saints and failed to pass medical clearance.

Minnesota was roasted for 400-plus yards and five TD passes by Drew Brees last week, and the Redskins’ passing game is set up for success this time around. Santana Moss can be viewed as a borderline WR2, and Jabar Gaffney a serviceable WR3. Rex Grossman is a recommended play in two-QB leagues.

Minnesota entered the week without Antoine Winfield and Chris Cook. Allen is the team’s third best cornerback. They’ll have to turn back to practice squad-type Marcus Sherels and rookie Brandon Burton in the base defense.

With nearly the entire league on a short week, Hutchinson might have trouble getting cleared for Saturday’s game against the Redskins. Vikings CB Asher Allen is also going through concussion testing.

In last week’s win over the Panthers, the Vikings had Allen shadow Steve Smith all over the field. It was a sign that the staff no longer trusts Griffin, who is coming off ACL surgery. Coach Leslie Frazier admitted Monday that he will have a discussion about who should be starting opposite Antoine Winfield.

With Antoine Winfield and Chris Cook already out, the Vikes are getting dangerously thin at cornerback. Street free agent Benny Sapp and return specialist Marcus Sherrels got mixed up on a touchdown to Roddy White shortly after Allen’s injury.

Coach Leslie Frazier made the announcement after Wednesday’s OTA practice. Frazier insisted the retirement wasn’t medical-related, but it’s worth noting that Allen suffered a concussion late last season and another in November of 2010. A third-round pick out of Georgia in 2009, Allen’s career ends after just three seasons and 21 career starts. He recorded four career interceptions.

Allen was limited all week with a toe injury. Marcus Sherels is active as the fourth cornerback.

Allen needed another year at UG, but he was ranked as high as the fifth best corner on some analysts’ boards. It’s hard to like his production -- Allen didn’t even have a pick in 2008 -- but he’s a corner with a high ceiling. The Vikes can use nickel help behind Antoine Winfield and Cedric Griffin.

As it was just a scope, the former Georgia Bulldog is expected to be ready to participate in training camp.