MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 26 (UPI) -- Against their better wishes, the Minnesota Vikings have placed running back Michael Bennett on the reserve/physically unable to perform list.
Bennett, who rushed for 1,296 yards and five touchdowns in 2002 and also caught 37 passes, sustained a stress fracture in his left foot in March during a workout. He had a surgical procedure in July aimed at stimulating bone growth in the foot, which has been slow to heal.
Bennett, who now is expected to miss the 2003 season, was supposed to be the Vikings' No. 1 running back this season. At this moment, he is in a cast. If he is activated for this season, he will not be eligible until Game Seven of the regular campaign.
Also, injury-plagued running back Doug Chapman is down. He suffered a high ankle sprain against Oakland last Friday, and already has had hamstring and foot injuries.
Veteran Mo Williams, who returned to the team this year, will be the starter in the regular season opener Sept. 7 against Green Bay.
