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As the Vikings prepare to host the Seahawks in the wild card round Sunday, they’re going to be without one of the key blockers for the run game they’re going to need.

According to Jason Gonzalez of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, tight end Rhett Ellison suffered a torn patellar tendon in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s win over the Packers, and will be out for the remainder of the season.

Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said Ellison will undergo surgery and need six months to get back on the field.

Ellison has shown value as a blocker and a fullback, helping the Vikings to the league’s fourth-ranked rushing game.

“Rhett is really a guy that does an awful lot of things,” Zimmer said. “He helps in blocking in the running game. He’s done a good job really with everything. He’s a smart guy and we’re going to miss him. Rhett’s a good football player and he’s probably a better person.”

Ellison was injured making a catch, of which he had 11 for 124 yards and a touchdown this year.