In the fourth quarter of the Minnesota Vikings game Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals, rookie defensive back Mike Hughes tangled with receiver Larry Fitzgerald and went down with an injury.  Today, the Vikings worst fears were confirmed.

Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer announced today that Mike Hughes, the Vikings first-round draft pick this year, will go on injured reserve because of a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

That means Hughes will miss the rest of this season and the timeline for his return next season will be dependent upon his surgery and then the rehabilitation process.

According to StarTribune.com, Hughes started two games this season and saw a lot of playing time both on defense and also as a special teams contributor.  In his absence the Vikings will likely lean on Jayron Kearse and George Iloka, and they could also add a player.

The good news for Mike Hughes is that the track record has been great for players suffering this type of injury and then returning at full speed once the rehabilitation process is complete.

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