Report: Christian Ponder could start despite separated shoulder

Christian Ponder's separated shoulder injury reportedly is minor. (Tom Dahlin/Getty Images)

Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder was sidelined by a shoulder injury in his team's 34-27 win over the Redskins on Thursday night, but he could return next week in Seattle.

Ian Rapoport tweeted that a source said Ponder's separated left shoulder was considered minor and he could possibly play next week against the Seahawks. The decision if Ponder will play should come by Wednesday.

Ponder went 17-for-21 for 174 yards with two touchdowns and an interception against the Redskins before leaving late in the third quarter with a dislocated shoulder on his non-throwing left arm. He suffered the injury when landing awkwardly after being hit by Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall while attempting to score on a scramble.

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Matt Cassel replaced Ponder at quarterback and handed the ball off to Adrian Peterson for a one-yard touchdown on the next play. Josh Freeman was the team's third quarterback.