Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater may not play against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday. Bridgewater is dealing with an ankle injury sustained in his first NFL start against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 4, and "signs point" to Bridgewater not playing in Week 5, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN, via Ben Goessling.
Teddy Bridgewater may not play Thursday, per report; Christian Ponder has low fantasy value
Teddy Bridgewater may not play against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday. We break down the fantasy implications.
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There are multiple factors at play here, but the short week is probably the biggest issue. Bridgewater, a rookie second-round pick, simply doesn't have enough time to give his ankle rest and recovery, and playing on it might risk further injury. The field conditions in the road game also could be spotty given the weather, as rain is a distinct possibility. It might be best for the Vikings to simply proceed with Christian Ponder as the starter.
Fantasy Impact: Bridgewater lost out to Matt Cassel in training camp, but gained the starting job when Cassel was placed on injured reserve. Ponder was very briefly a part of that quarterback battle before it became clear he was the third wheel and wasn't really taking part. He doesn't inspire a whole lot of confidence, especially against a Green Bay pass defense that's playing better than it has in years. It's hard to recommend Ponder get any fantasy time, though some owners may not have a choice. Whatever the case, Bridgewater missing the game does seem likely.
