Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier said defensive back Josh Robinson will not be placed on injured reserve following a fractured sternum he suffered against the Seahawks last week.
Frazier said he received a positive report on Robinson's recovery on Monday and expects him to return in a few weeks. Robinson's recovery time was initially announced 4-6 weeks with six games remaining.
Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph could also begin practicing next week. He fractured his left foot in Week 9 against the Cowboys and was also slated to miss 4-6 weeks.
"They're both making good progress, so the IR conversation is kind of on the backburner," Frazier said.
Vikings defensive back Xavier Rhodes and wide receiver Joe Webb both suffered concussions in Sunday's tie with the Packers. Frazier said their injuries will be the biggest health concerns leading up to Sunday's contest against the Bears at the Metrodome.
Frazier also expects Vikings safety Harrison Smith, who was placed on injured reserve in October but designated to return, to practice on Wednesday. He has missed six weeks and still needs to sit out two more games before Harrison's eligible to return with the team against the Eagles on Dec. 15.
