Christian Ponder Still Questionable for Panthers, Comments on Josh Freeman

Sep 22, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) leaves the field after losing tot he Cleveland Browns at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Browns win 31-27. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Despite the addition of Josh Freeman Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder is not worried about his job security and is okay with Freeman coming to Minnesota.

“It wasn’t my decision,” Ponder said Monday. “It was what’s best for the team. In my eyes, I’m getting prepared to play. As long as I play well, then I’m the one on the field.”

Ponder did not play with the Vikings’ last game in their last game against the Pittsburgh Steeler. Matt Cassel started and threw two touchdown passes to lead Minnesota to a 34-27 victory.

On Sunday, Freeman agreed to a deal with the Vikings and is expected in town later Monday. Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said earlier Monday that Ponder or Cassel will start this week against Carolina at the Metrodome. Frazier said it is too soon to throw Freeman into that mix.

Ponder said he spoke with Frazier about Freeman’s addition, but wanted to keep that conversation private.

Frazier continues to tentatively call Ponder the starter and says he wants to see how the third-year quarterback is healing when the Vikings return to practice Wednesday.

This season Ponder has passed for 691 yards with two touchdowns and five interceptions as the Vikings started 0-3. He hurt his rib during the third loss against Cleveland, but stayed in the game.

He threw during the bye week and said he is feeling very little, “if any,” pain.

“I’m just focused on what I can do,” Ponder said. “We’ll see how it plays out. I’m a man of faith. So I believe that God’s got my future in his hands.

“I don’t know what that means. But I’m trying to get healthy. I think ultimately this is going to make me a better quarterback.”