McKinnie battling plantar fasciitis

Vikings left tackle Bryant McKinnie created a stir at the Pro Bowl last month when he was kicked off the NFC roster after missing several practices. McKinnie later took to Twitter to defend himself and explain that he was injured and couldn't have played.

On Monday, McKinnie tweeted that he recently learned he has plantar fasciitis in both of his feet. Plantar fasciitis isn't a new term among Minnesota sports fans. Former Twin Shannon Stewart battled the problem, as did former Timberwolves Micheal Williams and Wally Szczerbiak. All missed substantial time because of the injury. The difference here, of course, is that the Vikings won't report to training camp until late July.

McKinnie tweeted that he has to get his feet taped for three days, do calf stretches and take medicine for a week. "Hopefully, it will [then] be gone," McKinnie said on Twitter. In a text message to Chip, McKinnie said he will go back to his doctor next week. Here is a tweet photo for you.

Vikings coach Brad Childress declined to go into much detail about any injuries at the NFL Scouting Combine last Friday. Childress said linebacker E.J. Henderson (leg) and cornerback Cedric Griffin (knee) were coming along and doing rehab work at Winter Park.

Childress also said nose tackle Pat Williams is doing rehab work. Williams missed a game late in the season because of an elbow injury. Pro Bowl left guard Steve Hutchinson (shoulder) was due to have surgery shortly after the season but Childress declined to give an update on his progress.

Click here to order Bryant McKinnie's proCane Rookie Card.



(startribune.com)