The Vikings have opened Blake Cashman's 21-day practice window, Head Coach Kevin O'Connell announced Monday.
The linebacker suffered a hamstring injury against the Bears in Minnesota's season opener and was placed on short-term Injured Reserve on Sept. 11. He recorded three tackles at Chicago.
Cashman started 14 games for the Vikings last season and led the team in tackles with 112 (68 solo). He also totaled 4.5 sacks, 11 QB hits, eight tackles for loss, a fumble recovery and eight passes defensed.
Cashman typically quarterbacks Brian Flores' defense, wearing the "green dot" helmet. Eric Wilson has filled in admirably during Cashman's absence, having recorded 35 tackles, two tackles for loss and two forced fumbles so far this season.
Should Cashman return to game-day action this weekend, it would mark his third career contest against the Eagles. The Vikings are sure to play it safe with the dynamic defender, though, and worth remembering is Minnesota's short turnaround before playing the Chargers next week on _Thursday Night Football._
Players do not count against the 53-man limit while in their 21-day evaluation window, but a roster move would need to occur in order for the player to be activated.