Vikings designate Peterson for return; CB has missed 3 games

EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Vikings cornerback Patrick Peterson will practice this week with an opportunity to play against NFC-leading Green Bay, after missing the past three games with a hamstring injury.

Peterson was designed for return Wednesday by the Vikings, making him eligible for action against the Packers if he's deemed ready by Sunday. Coach Mike Zimmer was noncommittal when asked about Peterson's status.

Linebacker Anthony Barr returned to practice on a limited basis, after sitting out last week with a lingering knee injury, his fifth absence in nine games this season.

The Vikings have two starters back this week from the COVID-19 reserve list: safety Harrison Smith and center Garrett Bradbury. Smith and Bradbury each missed the past two games.

The Vikings still have five players on the COVID-19 reserve list Wednesday, none of them starters. Backup safety Josh Metellus, a key contributor on special teams, was the latest to be added to the list.

Four players did not practice Wednesday because of non-injury-related absences: right tackle Brian O'Neill, nickel cornerback Mackensie Alexander, defensive end D.J. Wonnum and backup tight end Chris Herndon.

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