More injury news

The Vikings put starting right guard Pat Elflein on injured reserve, meaning the fourth-year player will miss at least three games. The Vikings did not disclose Elflein’s injury. NFL Network reported that Elflein hurt his thumb in practice Thursday.

Two of the Saints’ starting receivers, two-time All-Pro Michael Thomas and veteran Emmanuel Sanders, missed practice. Thomas, who limped off the field late in Sunday’s victory over Tampa Bay, has an ankle injury. The Saints said Sanders’ absence was not injury-related, but no further explanation was provided.