Vikings bolster roster with Ty Chandler’s return and rookie Joaquin Davis signing
The Minnesota Vikings have taken significant steps to enhance their offensive and special teams units as they gear up for their upcoming matchup against the Washington Commanders at U.S. Bank Stadium. The team has opened the practice window for running back and kick returner Ty Chandler, who has been sidelined on injured reserve since the season opener. Additionally, the Vikings have signed rookie wide receiver Joaquin Davis to their practice squad, adding depth to their receiving corps.
Chandler’s Path Back to the Field
Ty Chandler, 27, has faced challenges in the final year of his rookie contract due to a knee injury sustained early in the season. In the Vikings’ opening game against the Chicago Bears, Chandler contributed on special teams, playing 13 snaps and executing three kick returns. One notable moment came late in the game when Chandler made a savvy decision to return a kick from the end zone, effectively managing the clock and forcing Chicago to use a timeout.
After that promising start, however, Chandler landed on IR, marking nearly three months of recovery from what was clearly a significant knee issue. A fifth-round draft pick from North Carolina in 2022, Chandler has primarily contributed on special teams, but his potential as a running back has been evident. In the 2023 season, he showcased his skills with 123 offensive touches, amassing 620 yards from scrimmage and scoring three touchdowns, most of which came in the latter half of the season. Notably, he had impressive performances, including a 157-yard game against the Bengals.
Had Chandler remained healthy, he likely would have seen increased playing time behind Jordan Mason during Aaron Jones’ injury absence. Instead, those opportunities were filled by Zavier Scott. As Chandler works his way back, his potential role in the remaining games of the season remains uncertain. Myles Price has been handling kick return duties since Week 1, with Tai Felton also seeing action in that capacity.
Introducing Joaquin Davis
Joaquin Davis, standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 195 pounds, is an intriguing addition to the Vikings’ practice squad. The rookie out of North Carolina Central initially signed with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent, where he reportedly impressed during training camp before being released.
Davis boasts remarkable athleticism, having clocked a 4.36-second 40-yard dash and achieving a 42-inch vertical leap at his pro day. Over his last three seasons at NC Central, he caught 92 passes for 1,211 yards and 12 touchdowns, showcasing his playmaking ability. Now, he aims to prove himself in practice and secure a futures deal after the season, potentially earning a spot on the 90-man offseason roster.
Vikings’ Wide Receiver Depth Chart
The Vikings’ receiving corps has undergone some changes, especially following the release of Adam Thielen. Following the addition of Davis, the estimated depth chart now includes:
Justin Jefferson
Jordan Addison
Jalen Nailor
Tai Felton
Myles Price
Jeshaun Jones (practice squad)
Dontae Fleming (practice squad)
Joaquin Davis (practice squad)
Currently, the Vikings have one open spot on the 53-man roster and another on the practice squad, indicating that further adjustments could be on the horizon as the team looks to strengthen its lineup for the remainder of the season.
