Vikings Rookie DT Thrust Into Big Role For Opener

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Ready or not, here it comes for Minnesota Vikings rookie defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd.

Kevin Williams' right knee injury will keep him out of the season opener against the Detroit Lions on Sunday. That means Floyd will be thrust into a prominent role in the middle of the Vikings defense.

It's a challenge for any rookie to start his first game. But Floyd missed the final three games of the preseason because of a left knee injury, so his on-field experience is particularly limited. Floyd needed surgery to take care of the issue, but he says he's ready to go for Sunday.

Floyd was the first of three first-round draft picks the Vikings made in April's draft.

He says his knee feels great and he's ready to contribute right away.

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