Vikings bolster roster amid injuries to key players
The Minnesota Vikings have taken swift action to address injuries within their ranks, placing linebacker Blake Cashman and running back/kick returner Ty Chandler on injured reserve. Both players will be sidelined for a minimum of four games, a significant setback for the team as they navigate the upcoming weeks.
Injury Updates
Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed on Wednesday that both Cashman and Chandler would miss time, though he remains optimistic about their return later in the season. Cashman, who serves as Minnesota’s top linebacker, suffered a hamstring injury during the third quarter of the Vikings’ season-opening victory against the Chicago Bears. Meanwhile, Chandler is contending with a knee injury.
The absence of these two players will be felt keenly, particularly as the Vikings face two home games followed by a two-week international trip. There is a possibility for their return after the Week 6 bye, but for now, the team must adjust.
Impact of Cashman’s Injury
Cashman’s loss is particularly significant. He enjoyed a standout 2024 season, functioning not only as the primary linebacker but also as the green dot player—responsible for receiving play calls in his helmet and communicating them to teammates. The former Minnesota Gophers star made a strong impression since joining the Vikings last offseason, racking up 112 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and eight pass breakups over the course of 15 games, including the playoffs.
In his absence, the Vikings will look to veteran Eric Wilson, who returned to the team this offseason. Wilson stepped in as the green dot player after Cashman’s injury on Monday and played a pivotal role in the Vikings’ comeback victory. Alongside Wilson, Ivan Pace Jr. will take on a leading role at linebacker, with rookie Kobe King potentially moving up the depth chart.
Adjustments in the Backfield
Chandler’s injury opens up opportunities for Zavier Scott, who missed the opener but is expected to step in as the No. 3 running back. Scott may also take on responsibilities as the team’s second kick returner alongside standout rookie Myles Price, who has already made a name for himself this season. Scott was a full participant in practice on Wednesday, indicating he is ready to contribute.
Roster Moves
With two spots available on the 53-man roster, the Vikings have made several corresponding moves. They signed wide receiver Tim Jones and tight end Nick Vannett from their practice squad to the active roster, enhancing the offense’s depth and special teams. Vannett could play a crucial role if Josh Oliver, who was absent from practice on Wednesday, is unable to participate against the Atlanta Falcons.
Additionally, the Vikings have added second-year cornerback Tyrek Funderburk and veteran linebacker Sione Takitaki to the practice squad. Funderburk, who went undrafted out of Appalachian State last year, played in 14 games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during his rookie season. Takitaki, a former third-round pick by the Cleveland Browns in 2019, brings considerable experience with 86 games under his belt, including over 2,000 defensive snaps and more than 1,000 on special teams.
As the Vikings navigate these roster changes, the focus will remain on maintaining competitiveness while dealing with the challenges posed by injuries.
