Sherels to return punts for the Vikings

Published 3:34 pm Wednesday, September 7, 2011

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn.  — Marcus Sherels will be the punt returner to start the season for the Minnesota Vikings.

Coach Leslie Frazier said Wednesday that Sherels will get the first chance, with wide receiver Greg Camarillo also available. The Vikings open the season Sunday at San Diego.

Sherels went undrafted out of the University of Minnesota, landed on the practice squad last year and took advantage of injuries to take a spot on the active roster at the end of the season. The native of Rochester, Minn., played well enough in camp at cornerback to stick around this year.

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Frazier said the team hasn’t decided who will return kickoffs. Receiver Percy Harvin was a Pro Bowl pick two seasons ago as a rookie, but the Vikings have been hesitant to risk his health. Running back Lorenzo Booker is the other option.