We now know why Vikings cornerback Mike Hughes was placed on the injured reserve ahead of the wild card round of the playoffs.
Per the Star Tribune, Hughes suffered a broken neck vertebra.
The start of Hughes’ career has been rough as far as health is concerned. His rookie season was cut short by an ACL tear, and now he’ll have to rehab during another offseason to ensure that he’ll be ready for the 2020 season.
Hughes could be a huge part of the team’s plans defensively next season. Xavier Rhodes could be a cap casualty, while Trae Waynes’ contract expires.
In two seasons, Hughes has appeared in 20 games and started five.
In 2019, Hughes had a Pro Football Focus grade of 58.7, a mark that ranked 78th among 119 ranked cornerbacks.