The Vikings are going into Thursday’s game against the Texans planning to sit many of their starters, but injuries to the secondary could tweak that plan.

At Tuesday morning practice, safeties Mistral Raymond (back) and Andrew Sendejo (ankle) were not practicing, and cornerbacks Marcus Sherels (ankle) and Josh Robinson (concussion) were sidelined, as well. Coach Leslie Frazier said they all will not play Thursday night.

On the bright side, CB Chris Carr (back) returned to practice, so he does have a chance to suit up and see some action against Houston.

Regardless, the depth at all the secondary positions is light. Healthy safeties include last week (and potential opening day) starters Harrison Smith and Jamarca Sanford, plus Eric Frampton and rookie Robert Blanton. Frazier said that the rookie Smith could play, but it will probably be on an as-needed basis.

Blanton (hamstring) and Frampton (groin) are coming off injuries and should receive extended minutes. It’s extremely important for Blanton, as he has been out the entire preseason thus far.

“For the most part we are going to hold most of the (starters) and let the guys who are fighting for positions get the majority of the play time and see if they can show they deserve to be a part of our final 53,” said Frazier.

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