MINNEAPOLIS - The Minnesota Vikings placed safety Michael Griffin on injured reserve Saturday afternoon, ending the two-time Pro Bowler's bid to start next to Harrison Smith.
Griffin, who was on crutches in the team's locker room Sunday after his back seized up against the San Diego Chargers, did not play in the team's final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night.
On Saturday afternoon, he posted a message on Instagram that suggested he'd been released: "Just want to thank the @vikings organization for the opportunity and want to wish them the best this season.