Several Practice Squad Promotions May be Necessary for the Vikings in Week 15
K. Joudry
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True, the Week 14 game resulted in a win, but it came at a cost. Several Vikings were injured during the hard-fought battle.
As a result, there could be several practice squad promotions coming down the pipe. Injuries to Brian O’Neill, Alexander Mattison, and Jalen Nailor point toward the need to beef up the game-day roster depth. Plus, the Vikings are already dealing with a notable absence at linebacker (Jordan Hicks) alongside Justin Jefferson getting walloped in the ribs (though he said he’s going to play).
The (Potential) Practice Squad Promotions for the Vikings
Start up front.
O’Neill looks like he may need the week off. The end result will be a start for David Quessenberry, the veteran tackle who has done well in relief on the top tackles. Minnesota can also turn to Hakeem Adeniji, who demands a roster spot but often doesn’t dress.
Ed Ingram looks like he’ll be available to play, but the simple fact that he’s coming off an injury is notable. Plus, Dalton Risner has been limited and Chris Reed missed some practice time due to illness. The end result could be an extra lineman. Kevin O’Connell doesn’t want to stretch things too thin, especially on the road against a talented defense.
Keep an eye on Henry Byrd, Coy Cronk, and/or Tyrese Robinson.
When it comes to the running game, the expectation is that Ty Chandler is going to see more work. Mattison, like O’Neill, looks like he may need some added time to rest.
Mr. Chandler, the speedy sophomore, has cooled off as of late. Getting a shot at more carries can hopefully lead to some better rhythm and consistency. Not a bruiser, Chandler wins because of speed. Find a way of getting him into open space and let Chandler do the rest.
Behind Chandler is Kene Nwangwu, who hasn’t been able to carve out a meaningful role on offense in his three years in the NFL. Boosting the running back depth would involve elevating Myles Gaskin and/or DeWayne McBride. Otherwise, there could be a few more C.J. Ham carries in the not-too-distant future.
Subtracting Nailor at receiver likely points toward a promotion for either N’Keal Harry or Trishton Jackson. Harry is probably the favorite to get the call. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 225 pounds, Harry is a bruiser along the outside.
One also thinks of Anthony Barr. True, he didn’t get into the Raiders game, but Nick Vigil did. The point is simply that Minnesota has been reaching into their practice squad to offer a bit more help at linebacker while Hicks recovers from his leg injury. Look for Barr and/or Vigil to pickup some snaps on Saturday.
In truth, the Vikings are going to have a difficult time overcoming the Bengals. Zac Taylor has his squad playing at a high level behind backup Jake Browning (former Viking). The injuries to several key players further complicate matters.
Keep an eye on the depth players getting a shot on game day. The ability to provide strong play at several injury-depleted positions may be enough to propel Minnesota to an upset and an 8-6 record.
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K. Joudry is the Senior Editor for Vikings Territory and PurplePTSD. He has been covering the Vikings full time since the summer of 2021. He can be found on Twitter and as a co-host for Notes from the North, a humble Vikings podcast.