Vikings Star WR Rice Out After Hip Surgery

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- The Minnesota Vikings say receiver Sidney Rice has had hip surgery, a procedure that could keep the Pro Bowler out for the first half of the season or more.

The team posted an update on its website Tuesday.

It's a huge blow for the Vikings, who have very little depth at receiver. Percy Harvin has struggled with migraines and the team signed veteran Javon Walker on Tuesday to help out.

Rice had a breakout season in Brett Favre's first year in Minnesota. He caught 83 passes for 1,312 yards and eight TDs to earn his first Pro Bowl bid. But Rice was injured in the playoffs and did not play in the Pro Bowl.

Rice's surgery was first reported by the Star Tribune of Minneapolis.

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