Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said the team knew fullback Jerome Felton might be subject to a suspension when they re-signed the Pro Bowl fullback during the offseason.
Felton's three-game suspension was announced by the league Monday, the result of his DUI charge in 2012, which was ultimately reduced to a careless driving charge.
Felton, who is also recovering from an appendectomy, attended Monday's practice but did not speak with the media.
"Going into training camp we had an idea it could possibly happen," Frazier said. "We didn't know the extent, but we knew the possibility.''
Now the team is concentrating on who might fill in for Felton, whose lead blocking for Adrian Peterson earned the new contract. Frazier talked about using Rhett Ellison and perhaps rookie Zach Line as replacements.
Ellison has impressed the coaches with his work ethic since being taken in the fourth round of the 2012 draft.
"He's one of the hardest working players on our team," Frazier said. "It's hard to outwork Rhett. He comes prepared every single day. Seeing his work ethic his rookie year, I was so impressed. … He has not let up from his rookie season. He'll be ready when we line up against Detroit. But yes, we could add more to his plate, and we probably will have to now."
Bishop improves
Frazier said he was impressed with the improvement linebacker Desmond Bishop made from the team's second preseason game to the third. Sunday, getting heavy playing time, including some snaps with the No. 1 defense, Bishop led the team with nine tackles, all solo, two for loss, against the 49er. Bishop continues to push for a starting position.