Today marks exactly four weeks since Sharrif Floyd underwent his latest knee surgery, one that cleaned up cartilage issues in his right knee.
Though Floyd, who missed four starts last season after a similar operation, does not appear close to returning.
"I don't think so," head coach Mike Zimmer said when asked Thursday if Floyd's return to practice was imminent.
Floyd was limited throughout the offseason due to knee issues and has not practiced since Sept. 9. Two days later, during the opener in Tennessee, Floyd suffered the latest setback that ultimately required surgery on Sept. 22.
It's a disappointing turn for Floyd, who is in position to play for a long-term contract extension this year. The Vikings picked up his fifth-year option in the spring, so he's under contract through 2017.
The Vikings defense hasn't missed a beat despite losing the 2013 first-round pick. They're tied for the NFL lead with 19 sacks, including 17 from the defensive line, as Tom Johnson and Shamar Stephen have filled in for Floyd.
Floyd may not travel to Philadelphia, his hometown, for Sunday's game against the Eagles. Floyd said Thursday it'd be Zimmer's decision and that he was happy for his teammates.
Sunday will mark Floyd's 10th missed game since 2014.
