Report: Vikings' Dozier hospitalized due to COVID-19

Minnesota Vikings offensive lineman Dakota Dozier was hospitalized Tuesday with breathing difficulties stemming from COVID-19, ESPN's Courtney Cronin reports.

Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer acknowledged Wednesday that a player required hospitalization because of the virus but didn't disclose his identity. Dozier, who is vaccinated, is now in stable condition, Zimmer said.

"It's serious stuff, so, I don't know," Zimmer told reporters. "Like 29 guys are getting tested because of close contact, including myself."

Dozier went on the COVID-19 list Friday and is one of a handful of players Minnesota has on reserve. The Vikings are operating under intensive protocols, requiring daily testing and increased masking to prevent a potential spread.