The Vikings' injured defensive corps didn't make much progress this week with two of their three top players ruled out and the other questionable for Sunday's game against Chicago.
Nose tackle Linval Joseph (foot) was listed as questionable but could play for the first time in three weeks, while linebacker Anthony Barr (groin/hand) and safety Harrison Smith (knee/hamstring) won't play for a second consecutive week.
Joseph, who hasn't played since Week 12 at Atlanta, practiced for a second consecutive day, and defensive end Everson Griffen (shoulder) returned but was limited and is also questionable.
Defensive end Scott Crichton (concussion) sat out for a third day in a row and won't play Sunday. Wide receiver Charles Johnson (ankle) also was ruled out.
Safeties Andrew Sendejo (knee) and Robert Blanton (knee), and linebacker Brandon Watts were all listed probable for Sunday. Sendejo has missed the past two games.
The overload of injuries had the Vikings' schemes changing. "We come up with game plans and then we throw out things that some guys can't do or try to change it up a little bit," coach Mike Zimmer said, "but nothing much."
Still rolling
A unopened Hot Wheels with a note attached to it sat on the top shelf of cornerback Xavier Rhodes' locker earlier this week at Winter Park.
"#29 Player of the Game," the note read.