Ben Tate

Jerick McKinnon need not worry; the Vikings claim they didn't bring sign Ben Tate to be the starting running back.

Minnesota picked Tate up on waivers Wednesday and he practiced Thursday, two days after he was released by the Cleveland Browns. Offensive coordinator Norv Turner said Tate was signed for insurance because McKinnon was the only regular running back able to practice at all this week.

"We're in a situation where (Wednesday) we had one back that could practice, so the timing of (Tate) being released and the opportunity for us to add a back ... was good timing," Turner said. "We're excited about Jerick and what he's done, and I see him as our running back. He's been limited in practice last week and couldn't practice (Wednesday), so you've got to protect yourself."

McKinnon may see an extra large workload this week with Matt Asiata likely out and Ben Tate trying to get up to speed in the offense.