Anthony

Herrera

Offensive coordinator Mike Tice must be driving Chicago’s interest. Tice developed Herrera as an undrafted player out of Tennessee during their time together with the Vikings.

There is believed to be a “significant gap” in a possible restructure. If Hutchinson is released, beat writer Tom Pelissero knows of at least one time that will attempt to sign him. The Vikes brass will meet Saturday to discuss the futures of Hutchinson, RG Anthony Herrera, and CB Cedric Griffin.

Three months shy of his 32nd birthday, Herrera was due $2.75 million between salary and bonuses next season. It’s a reasonable rate for a solid interior lineman, but Herrera graded out as the league’s ninth worst right guard in Pro Football Focus’ 2011 rankings. Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2004, Herrera had started 64 games since 2007. The Vikings currently have only Joe Berger and Brandon Fusco under contract at guard.

His return is questionable. Rookie Brandon Fusco replaced him in the lineup at right guard.

Herrera continues to be plagued by injuries, missing four games and getting dominated up front in several more. Turning 32 in June, Herrera is due $2.75 million in salary and bonuses. The Vikes could turn to Brandon Fusco or move Charlie Johnson from tackle.

Joe Berger will get the start once again. The Vikings didn’t miss Herrera in Week 8, racking up 361 yards of offense in a win over the Panthers.

It’s the same knee that Herrera had surgically repaired late last year. It looked like his knee was hyperextended on contact, though he walked off under his own power. Backup Brandon Fusco has come on his replacement. Herrera returned to the game in the third quarter but was in and out the rest of the way while limping badly.

It’s an injury that shouldn’t require surgery, but may cause temporary chemistry issues along Minnesota’s offensive line. Herrera has been playing poorly, however, grading out as Pro Football Focus’ 51st-ranked guard as he entered Week 7. The Vikings may turn to rookie Brandon Fusco in the meantime.

He had been splitting time there with Artis Hicks. “They gave me a chance,” Herrera said. “I’m pretty sure if I had gone out there and stunk, they’d have had to look at somebody else. I just tried to grab a hold of it and take advantage of my opportunity.”