The Minnesota Vikings made a flurry of roster moves on Saturday, reshaping their lineup as they prepare for a crucial Week 5 clash against the Cleveland Browns in London. The most significant blow came with the placement of starting center Ryan Kelly on injured reserve, while the team welcomed back fan-favorite fullback C.J. Ham in a move that could energize the squad.
Kelly, a cornerstone of the Vikings’ offensive line, suffered his second concussion of the season during last weekend’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin. The 32-year-old veteran, who also sustained a concussion in the season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, did not practice all week in England and was officially ruled out for Sunday’s game. NFL rules mandate that Kelly, now on injured reserve, will miss at least four games, making him eligible to return no earlier than the Week 10 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on November 9. His absence leaves a significant void in the Vikings’ offensive front, as the team will need to rely on depth players to protect quarterback Carson Wentz and maintain their ground game.
In brighter news, the Vikings activated fullback C.J. Ham from injured reserve, setting the stage for his potential season debut on Sunday. Ham, sidelined by a knee injury, was a full participant in practice this week and had been listed as questionable. His return is a boost for Minnesota’s offense, as the versatile fullback brings physicality, leadership, and a knack for opening running lanes. Fans are eager to see Ham back in action, and his presence could provide a spark for a Vikings team looking to maintain momentum in a competitive NFC North.
To further bolster the roster, the Vikings made several additional moves. Rookie guard Vershon Lee was signed from the practice squad to the active roster, adding depth to the offensive line in Kelly’s absence. The team also elevated running back Cam Akers and guard Henry Byrd from the practice squad for Sunday’s game, providing extra flexibility in the backfield and trenches.
In a surprising move, the Vikings waived quarterback Desmond Ridder. With rookie J.J. McCarthy sidelined for a third straight week due to a high ankle sprain, the team will head into Sunday’s game with only two available quarterbacks: starter Carson Wentz and rookie backup Max Brosmer. The decision to carry just two quarterbacks underscores the team’s confidence in Wentz’s leadership and Brosmer’s potential, though it leaves little margin for error.
As the Vikings navigate this pivotal stretch of the season, these roster changes reflect a team adapting to adversity while leaning on returning veterans and emerging talent. With Kelly sidelined and Ham back in the fold, Minnesota is shuffling the deck in hopes of dealing a winning hand against the Browns in London.