Vikings' request to have Greg Olsen pulled from Week 11 broadcast declined

The NFL is going ahead with a bold broadcasting decision this Sunday when the Los Angeles Rams visit the Minnesota Vikings.

Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen will be making his broadcasting debut, despite an expected return from injury in Week 12. The Panthers are on a bye this week, allowing Olsen the freedom to explore a potential career move when his playing days are finished.

He joins Matt Hasselbeck and Marcus Allen as the only other players to have worked as analysts while still playing.

Vikings general manager Rick Spielman, whose team leads the NFC North with a record of 7-2, spoke to both the NFL and FOX about having Olsen pulled from the game, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. The Vikings will play the Panthers, who are second in the NFC South with a record of 7-3, in Week 14. As top NFC contenders through 10 weeks, a potential playoff matchup can't be ruled out at this point, either.

Spielman's request to have Olsen work a different game this week was declined. However, Olsen will not be allowed in the production meeting or walkthrough.

FOX Vice President of Communications Eddie Motl released the following statement:

"We are excited for the opportunity to make this Sunday's broadcast fun and insightful with Pro Bowler Greg Olsen. We fully respect the Vikings concerns and will limit the amount of pre-game access allowed to Greg. We look forward to welcoming him in the broadcast booth and giving viewers a unique perspective this Sunday," Motl said.