Vikings' Phil Loadholt Done for Year with Achilles Tear

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Vikings right tackle Phil Loadholt's season is over because of a torn left Achilles tendon.

Vikings offensive coordinator Norv Turner confirmed on Monday the fears the team had after Saturday night's preseason game. Loadholt was injured early in the first quarter game against Tampa Bay and an MRI exam showed the extent of the damage.

It's a big loss for the Vikings, who enter the season with hopes of making a playoff run. Loadholt has been the starter for all six of his seasons in Minnesota, though a pectoral injury ended his season early last year.

Turner says the team will turn to rookie T.J. Clemmings, a fourth-round draft pick out of Pittsburgh.