The Minnesota Vikings will reportedly start quarterback Christian Ponder on Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. Although Freeman had been slated to start, the 25-year-old ex-Buccaneer is suffering concussion-like symptoms, USA Today Sports reports.
The quarterback carousel continued on Wednesday for the Vikings. After announcing Freeman would start under center on Sunday, the Vikings are now returning to Ponder after Freeman reported concussion-like symptoms earlier in the week.
"The fact that he's not able to practice today, you lose today on a short week, makes it tough for him," Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said of Freeman. "We need to get Christian ready to go."
Ponder, who last started on Sept. 22 against the Cleveland Browns, unceremoniously lost his job to the newly acquired Freeman. Despite being cleared to return from an injury, Ponder was passed over in favor of backup Matt Cassel on Oct. 13 against Carolina.
Ponder was again passed over on Monday in favor of Freeman, who originally set to start again on Sunday. Frazier wouldn't indicate whether Ponder has a chance to regain the starting quarterback position.
"Obviously, we want Christian to have a great game on Sunday night and just focus on the Green Bay game - not look beyond that game," Frazier said. "We'll deal with whatever comes after that."
The former No. 12 pick of the 2011 NFL draft struggled this season in the three games he played in, completing 59 percent of his of passes for two touchdowns and five interceptions.
Ponder admitted on Wednesday he was frustrated by the situation with Freeman but intended to make the most of his chance on Sunday.
"I think it's true to say that I was frustrated and down, but I didn't let that affect me," Ponder told reporters. "I know this is an opportunity to step back and improve on some things and I did. It's got to translate out to the field, though. I'm excited."
ESPN reported earlier in the week the possibility of Cassel being traded to St. Louis.
