The Vikings rested at least 31 players, including all 22 starters, against the Patriots. Those included valued role players like fullback C.J. Ham, outside linebacker Dallas Turner, cornerback Jeff Okudah, safety Theo Jackson, running back Jordan Mason, linebacker Eric Wilson and swing tackle Justin Skule.
Defensive tackle Levi Drake Rodriguez did not play while recovering from an ankle injury.
Rookie outside linebacker Tyler Batty exited the game in the second quarter with a wrist injury, according to O’Connell. Offensive lineman Henry Byrd, who started at left tackle, was knocked out of the game with an ankle injury.
Price did give the Vikings a needed jolt on special teams.
He first saved a touchdown on kick coverage when he caught Patriots returner Jeremiah Webb from behind on a 59-yard sprint just before halftime. Price later found room on a 20-yard punt return. He then really turned on the jets during an 81-yard kickoff return in the fourth quarter — before getting caught himself.
“I definitely left some money on the table,” Price said of being tackled by Patriots cornerback Jordan Polk. “Got to take that one to the crib.”