Minnesota Vikings News and Links: Depth Already Being Tested

pecific injury is what landed him on IR this time, but it is always tough to see a player struggle with injuries.

Sione Takitaki, the linebacker added to the practice squad, brings a physical presence to the defense. He is known for his hard hits and ability to stop the run. Takitaki was a third-round pick by the Cleveland Browns in the 2019 NFL Draft. He played college football at BYU and was a standout player for the Cougars. Takitaki has shown flashes of potential in his time in the NFL, but has yet to fully establish himself as a starter. Joining the Vikings practice squad gives him an opportunity to continue developing his skills and potentially earn a spot on the active roster.

Tyrek Funderburk, the cornerback added to the practice squad, brings speed and athleticism to the secondary. Funderburk went undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft after playing college football at Virginia Tech. He is a versatile player who can play both outside and in the slot. Funderburk has good ball skills and the ability to make plays on the ball. He will provide depth and competition at the cornerback position for the Vikings.

Blake Cashman, the linebacker placed on IR, has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. He was a fifth-round pick by the New York Jets in the 2019 NFL Draft. Cashman played college football at the University of Minnesota and was a productive player for the Golden Gophers. However, injuries have derailed his NFL career thus far. It is unclear what specific injury landed Cashman on IR this time, but it is unfortunate to see a talented player struggle with health issues.

Ty Chandler, the running back placed on IR, is another player dealing with injuries. Chandler signed with the Vikings as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Tennessee. He was a productive player for the Volunteers, but injuries have limited his opportunities in the NFL. Chandler has shown potential as a runner and receiver out of the backfield, but staying healthy has been a challenge for him.

Injuries are a common and unfortunate reality in the NFL. Players put their bodies on the line every time they step onto the field, and the physical toll of the game can be immense. It is always tough to see talented players like Cashman and Chandler struggle with injuries and have their seasons cut short. However, injuries are a part of the game, and teams must adapt and adjust when key players go down.

The Vikings’ decision to add Takitaki and Funderburk to the practice squad shows their commitment to developing young talent and building depth on the roster. Practice squad players may not always get the recognition or playing time that active roster players do, but they play a crucial role in helping the team prepare for games and providing depth in case of injuries. Takitaki and Funderburk will have the opportunity to learn from the coaching staff, practice against the starting offense and defense, and potentially earn a spot on the active roster if they perform well in practice.

The practice squad is an important tool for NFL teams to develop young players and provide depth at key positions. Practice squad players are often young, unproven players who are looking to earn a spot on the active roster. They practice with the team during the week and help prepare the starters for upcoming games. Practice squad players do not usually dress for games, but they are valuable assets for teams to have in case of injuries or other roster moves.

Sione Takitaki and Tyrek Funderburk will have the opportunity to prove themselves on the practice squad and potentially earn a spot on the active roster in the future. Takitaki’s physicality and Funderburk’s athleticism make them intriguing prospects for the Vikings. They will have the chance to learn from the coaching staff, practice against the starters, and showcase their skills in practice. If they perform well, they could be called up to the active roster and contribute on game days.

Injuries are an unfortunate reality in the NFL, but they also provide opportunities for other players to step up and make an impact. The Vikings will have to adjust their game plan and roster depth to account for the loss of Cashman and Chandler. Takitaki and Funderburk will have the chance to show what they can do and potentially earn a more prominent role on the team. The NFL is a league of constant change and adaptation, and teams must be prepared to make adjustments on the fly when injuries occur.

Overall, the addition of Sione Takitaki and Tyrek Funderburk to the Vikings’ practice squad provides depth and competition at key positions. Takitaki brings physicality and run-stopping ability to the linebacker position, while Funderburk adds speed and athleticism to the cornerback group. Both players will have the opportunity to develop their skills, learn from the coaching staff, and potentially earn a spot on the active roster in the future. Injuries are an unfortunate reality in the NFL, but they also create opportunities for other players to step up and make an impact. The Vikings will have to adjust their game plan and roster depth to account for the loss of Cashman and Chandler, but the addition of Takitaki and Funderburk provides hope for the future.

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Source: Daily Norseman