Vikings' Michael Pierce misses practice again, Ben Ellefson placed on injured reserve
Oct. 28—Vikings nose tackle Michael Pierce didn't practice again on Thursday, putting his status in question for Sunday night's game against Dallas.
Pierce has missed the past two games due to an elbow injury, and hasn't practiced since being hurt Oct. 3 against Cleveland. He could be replaced for a third straight game by Armon Watts.
The Vikings on Thursday placed tight end Ben Ellefson (knee, foot) on injured reserve, and he must miss at least three games. A source said that Ellefson is expected to return this season after he suffered a foot injury in practice on Wednesday. Ellefson had previously missed Minnesota's last game, on Oct. 17 at Carolina, with a knee injury.
The Vikings now have an opening on the 53-man roster, and tight end Luke Stocker is a candidate to take Ellefson's spot. Stocker was protected on the practice squad this week and is a good bet to be elevated for Sunday's game at U.S. Bank Stadium if he is not signed to the active roster.
For the second straight day, wide receiver Dede Westbrook (ankle) did not practice. However, special-teams coordinator Ryan Ficken is optimistic that Westbrook will play against the Cowboys and return punts.
"I anticipate him to be ready to go," Ficken said. "I know he's ready for the opportunity, as well."
Also Thursday, linebacker Anthony Barr (knee) was a full participant in practice after being limited on Wednesday.
