Mike Zimmer taking break from Vikings to recover from eye surgeries

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (KMSP) - Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer is taking time away from the team to recover from eye surgeries, the Vikings announced Monday.

Zimmer recently underwent his eighth surgery on his right eye since November, when he scratched his retina during a game. Emergency eye surgery forced him to miss one of the team’s regular season games.

“We all agree Mike’s health is the priority and we believe rest and recovery are in his best interest in the long term,” General Manager Rick Spielman said in a statement.

The Vikings are scheduled to begin OTA practices this week. Spielman said he anticipates Zimmer will be back on the field in a few weeks.