Linval Joseph hurt in nightclub shooting, Minnesota Vikings confirm

Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Linval Joseph was shot in the leg while at a nightclub early Saturday following the team’s preseason win over the Oakland Raiders, the team announced.

The Vikings said Joseph suffered a “minor injury” when a stray bullet struck his calf. It is unclear whether the injury will prevent Joseph from participating in training camp or if it will force him to miss games.

Police told KSTP-TV in Minneapolis that as many as nine people could have been injured during the shooting, which occurred around 1:50 a.m. CDT Saturday. Police said two people suffered serious injuries, but they are expected to survive.

Here’s the complete statement from the Vikings:

“Following last night’s preseason game, Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Linval Joseph was an innocent bystander to the shooting that took place at the 400 SoundBar in downtown Minneapolis.

“Linval suffered a minor injury during the shooting when a stray bullet struck his calf. He was immediately taken to the hospital where he was treated for his injury and released. He is expected to return to his coaches and teammates this week.

“The entire Vikings organization is extremely thankful that Linval was not seriously hurt, and our thoughts are with all of the victims of this shooting. The team will defer any further comment to the Minneapolis Police Department during its ongoing investigation.”

Joseph, who is entering his fifth NFL season, signed a five-year, $31.5-million deal with the Vikings in March after spending four seasons with the New York Giants. He helped anchor the Giants defensive line to a Super Bowl title in 2012.

Joseph had 33 tackles and three sacks for the Giants in 2013.