Josh Freeman was named the Vikings starting quarterback for Monday night's game against the New York Giants.

Coach Leslie Frazier made the announcement at noon following the Vikings' morning practice, where Freeman took reps with the first-team offense for the first time.

Freeman was expected to meet with the media this afternoon.

Christian Ponder spoke to reporters coming off the field, and said his future in Minnesota was "uncertain." Ponder will be the backup on Monday. Matt Cassel, who took over when Ponder was sidelined because of a broken rib for Game 4 of the season, will be the third stringer.

Frazier said Freeman has spent a lot of time digesting the team's offense since he was picked up 10 days ago. Freeman was released by Tampa Bay, and chose the Vikings, presuming it would give him the best opportunity to start right away.

Adrian Peterson missed the practice for personal reasons. His 2-year-old son died last Friday in Sioux Falls, S.D.