Vikings right tackle Phil Loadholt spoke for the first time since the Vikings placed him on injured reserve with a torn pectoral in the 24-21 loss against the Packers on Sunday.
Loadholt said it occurred on a pass play during the Vikings' final drive in the game. He attempted to block a defender rushing inside and extended his arm too far, causing the tear.
"I wouldn't have wanted anything more than to help my team out these last five games, but I'm going to do what I can to stay involved in meetings, help Mike [Harris] and the guys prepare as much as possible," Loadholt said. "Hopefully we can continue to build and win these last five games."
He'll remain around the facilities like right guard Brandon Fusco, who was also placed on injured reserve earlier this season with the same injury. Loadholt will have surgery on Friday and expects to be fully healthy for training camp in July.
Harris will likely start at right tackle on Sunday against the Panthers, but the Vikings signed offensive tackle J'Marcus Webb off the street to fill the team's open spot on the roster. Webb spent last season with the Vikings but hasn't been on an active roster this season. He spent training camp with the Chiefs but was one of the final roster cuts after the preseason.
"It's always good to be back with a team that you're loyal with and have fun playing with," Webb said. "I just got to think positive, learn everything I need to quickly and as fast as I can to help this team out as quick as possible."
Webb, in his fifth season, was asked if he thought his career was over as he sat in Austin, Texas waiting for a team to call.
"Nah, I didn't think I was done," Webb said. "I just turned 26 years old (in August) and I'm still a big boy and ready to rock and roll. That thought never crossed my mind."
