Minnesota Vikings

Zimmer 'not really' concerned about John Sullivan's absence

Published Sep. 8, 2015 11:50 a.m. ET

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Starting Minnesota Vikings center John Sullivan has been sidelined for nearly three weeks with back spasms. Although the eighth-year veteran serves as the anchor of Minnesota's entire offensive line, Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer is not too worried about Sullivan's absence so far, according to Chris Tomasson of the Pioneer Press.

"Not really," Zimmer said when asked if he's concerned about Sullivan, per the Pioneer Press. "He’s getting better every day. We might get him out here a little (Tuesday). … He’s getting better every day, so I’m encouraged."

The Vikings have another veteran, Joe Berger, ready to step in if Sullivan can't play in the season-opener against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday night. Berger played in all 16 games for the Vikings last year, including nine starts at right guard.

"You always got to prepare to start," Berger said, via the Pioneer Press. "Right now, I’m out there at the center spot and, yeah, that’s my mentality. If it changes, it changes. That’s not my concern."

It's always good to have a backup plan, but the Vikings would much rather have a healthy Sullivan at center. If he's unable to play, Monday will mark Sullivan's first missed start since the 2011 season.

(h/t Pioneer Press)