Christian Ponder's job is safe, for now. He will start for the Vikings on Thursday night against the Washington Redskins, announced Leslie Frazier Tuesday.

Frazier told ESPN 1500 in Minneapolis, "Well, Christian knows from me that we want him to succeed. He has no reason to look over his shoulder and say, 'If this happens something negative like an interception on Sunday you're going to be pulled, or sack-fumble in the end zone you're going to be pulled. He doesn't have to worry about that. He has to worry about playing well. That's all he has to worry about."

Ponder has started the last two games after starting the first three games of the season. In the last two games, he has completed 39-of-58 passes for 381 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He has also ran for two rushing touchdowns.

In other Vikings news, safeties Andrew Sendejo, and Mistral Raymond will both start on Thursday against Washington. Harrison Smith was placed on injured reserve, while  Jamarca Sanford is day-to-day.

Right tackle Phil Loadholt will also miss Thursday's game. J'Marcus Webb will start in his place.

Tight end Kyle Rudolph is out four to six weeks with a broken foot.

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