Written by Jacob Feldman at SI.com
If all goes according to plan, quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will return to the Vikings’ active roster Wednesday (possibly to Sam Bradford’s detriment). It’s the latest plot point in Bridgewater’s inspiring story, the culmination of more than 400 days of recovery since the 24-year-old dislocated his knee in a practice near the end of the 2016 preseason. But the reason the roster move leads this newsletter is because of the questions surrounding what happens next.
Every indication out of Minnesota is that Case Keenum will start Sunday in Washington. He’s led the Vikings to four straight wins so coach Mike Zimmer might as well throw him out there again as Bridgewater reacquaints himself with the position. But then what? Keenum may have the team at 6-2, atop the NFC North by two games, but there’s a reason he’s bounced between cities over the past five years while Bridgewater was a first-round pick. Keenum is averaging 6.9 yards per attempt this year, just shy of his career high yet still below the average Bridgewater posted in both 2014 and 2015. Plus, the offense now is more capable than it was back then. Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs are the only teammates ranked in the top 10 at wide receiver by Pro Football Focus, and while Adrian Peterson may be gone, the Minnesota offensive line has improved significantly. On top of that, teammates are saying that Bridgewater himself appears stronger than he was two years ago. When up to speed, he should start.
If there’s one thing Keenum has going for him, it’s familiarity with awkward situations. Earlier this year, he was playing every week while the team hoped to get Bradford back. Last season in Los Angeles, Keenum knew he was just keeping the spot warm for first overall pick Jared Goff.
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