Teddy Bridgewater on Injury: 'My Purpose Will Not Be Denied'

For the first time since suffering a complete ACL tear and dislocated knee at practice Tuesday, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater spoke publicly about his situation:

I want to thank the Wilf Family and the entire Vikings organization, all of my teammates, friends, Eric Sugarman and the amazing Vikings athletic training staff and the fans who have sent me messages and wished me well.

Your thoughts and prayers mean a lot to me and have helped me in this difficult time. There are great players and great leaders in our locker room who are going to fight to the end to reach the goals we set for 2016. I will be there mentally, physically and in spirit to support them accomplish those goals.

In order to have a testimony, you have to have a test. I come from amazing DNA, I watched my mom fight and win against breast cancer. We will, as a team, attack my rehab with the same vigor and energy. My faith is strong, my faith is unwavering and my vision is clear. My purpose will not be denied.

ESPN reporter Ben Goessling reported that the statement was written in Bridgewater's own words:

The Vikings placed Bridgewater on injured reserve Wednesday, a day after the third-year quarterback tore his ACL and suffered other structural damage at practice.

Sorensen played quarterback at Southern Utah and was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the seventh round in 2013.

The Vikings made the roster moves after it became clear Bridgewater would not be able to return this season.

The Vikings will play their final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams Thursday night at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Image: Matthew Deery via Flickr /Creative Commons