Vikings coach Mike Zimmer confirmed after tonight's 26-16 preseason win over the Buccaneers that starting right tackle Phil Loadholt is likely out for the season with a torn left Achilles tendon

Zimmer said it isn't final, but it isn't looking good. Loadholt will have an MRI tomorrow morning. The Vikings fear the worst.

"It's disappointing for Phil because he's worked so hard [to come back from a torn pectoral] and he's such a great person," Zimmer said. "But it's part of football. Guys get hurt and the next guy's got to [play]."

T.J. Clemmings replaced Loadholt tonight and Zimmer thought the rookie held his own as the starters scored twice on their three possessions.

"I thought T.J. did a nice job when he was in there," Zimmer said. "He's a terrific athlete and that's where he feels more comfortable, at tackle."

Clemmings played well enough for Zimmer to say that the fourth-round pick will get the first crack at Loadholt's spot in practice this week.

"We draft these guys to get in here and play," Zimmer said.

The Vikings drafted two other offensive linemen after Clemmings this spring in Austin Shepherd and Tyrus Thompson. Both have split time at guard and tackle during training camp and the preseason.

The Vikings could also consider moving Mike Harris back to right tackle. But for now, Zimmer thinks he is playing well at right guard and wants to keep him there. Harris, meanwhile, said he is up for whatever, though he spent most of his football life at tackle before switching spots this summer.

Carter Bykowski of Eden Prairie could also be an option at right tackle.

"One of these young guys has got to step up," left tackle Matt Kalil said in the somber offensive side of the locker room. "I don't know who yet, but I'm sure someone will step up to the challenge and fill that right tackle void."