Last week, another nail was put in the coffin of his 2022 draft class. Of course, Lewis Cine was the biggest miss that April, but six other selections are no longer around, and Ed Ingram (2nd round) was just benched.

Akayleb Evans can bounce back from Vikings release in Carolina

There was a time when Alayleb Evans looked like he would play a key role for the Minnesota Vikings defense. That opportunity quickly came and went.

With Josh Oliver out last week in Chicago, the former 4th round pick was waived in favor of more tight end depth. On Monday, he was claimed by the Carolina Panthers.

Former #Vikings CB Akayleb Evans, who was waived on Saturday, was claimed by the #Panthers, sources tell me and @MikeGarafolo.

With a season worth of starts and plenty of special teams prowess, Evans should help. pic.twitter.com/TpKzQuitLt

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 25, 2024

Evans forced his way into the starting lineup as a rookie (two starts in 10 games), before starting 15 games last season. This year he played in just seven games and got in for just three defensive snaps. The 85% snap share defensively cratered when veterans Stephon Gilmore and Shaq Griffin came to town.

Like Andrew Booth Jr. before him, Evans becomes the second corner to flame out from the 2022 draft. If you include Cine, then the Vikings went 0-for-3 on secondary help in that draft.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Injury Update: Latest News on Darnold, Robinson and Pace Jr 

The Panthers aren’t a good team so Evans should presumably have an opportunity to earn a starting role the rest of the way. He’ll team up with Adam Thielen again.

Vikings 2022 picks still popping up

Although the majority of Adofo-Mensah’s 2022 draft picks have gone belly up, that doesn’t mean other organizations have stop trying to extract value. Minnesota did slide Ed Ingram and Ty Chandler down the depth chart, but it was Nick Muse that took Evans’ spot this weekend. Unfortunately, his roster spot didn’t last long and the Vikings handed him a tough birthday present on Monday.

More time was spent on the birthday graphic than Muse got on the roster. pic.twitter.com/IqkI0kqNpY

— Ted (@tlschwerz) November 25, 2024

Esezi Otomewo is with the Jacksonville Jaguars and has started two of the four games he has played. He wasn’t active a couple weeks ago against Minnesota, but the former Gophers star recorded his first half-sack this season. There is also Vederian Lowe, the sixth round tackle from Illinois. He started eight of eleven games last year for New England and is now Drake Maye’s blindside blocker. He had a rough go of it on Sunday, but props to the late round pick for stacking starts the past two seasons.

Vederian Lowe is top-10 in penalties among OL despite essentially missing 4 games

4 flags vs Miami, including 3 false starts, is unacceptable, but the LT was fine for the most part in pass pro

Think Mike Jordan should've provided more help on both of his sacks allowed pic.twitter.com/i17aN7vF3C

— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) November 25, 2024

Related: Vikings QB Sam Darnold Catches Brutal Stray During Caleb Williams’ Press Conference

At this point it looks like the most productive member of the group still remains in Minnesota. Jalen Nailor is firmly entrenched as the Vikings third wide receiver. He has five touchdowns on just 17 receptions this year.

Bears GM Ryan Poles and Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah were both hired in January, 2022. Now 2.5 years later, the two front office heads are in much different spots. Minnesota is on the verge of finishing with two winning seasons, and likely to receive a contract extension, this spring.

Difficult year for Minnesota Vikings 2022 Draft Picks

Meanwhile, the Bears are in danger of three-straight losing seasons, under Poles, and just fired the first head coach he hired. But the Vikings’ success under Adofo-Mensah is no thanks his first (2022) NFL Draft, which is now infamously known as one of the worst in franchise history… and 2024 has proven that.

1st round safety, (No. 32) Lewis Cine, didn’t make the team out of training camp. 2nd round cornerback (No. 43) Andrew Booth Jr was traded around that same time, and 2nd round guard (No. 59) Ed Ingram was just benched last week, in favor of Dalton Risner.

But the difficult year for 2022 Minnesota Vikings draft picks continued on Saturday, when 4th round (No. 118) CB Akayleb Evans was placed on outright waivers, likely ending his time in purple.

The #Vikings are waiving CB Akayleb Evans, per me and @MikeGarafolo, a bit of a surprise for the 2022 draft pick who has 17 starts and plays special teams.

With a major roster crunch, Minnesota makes a tough cut. pic.twitter.com/9Ag7imbvEw

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 23, 2024

Related: Minnesota Vikings Tight End Officially Ruled Out vs Bears

This is a move that wasn’t all that hard to see coming. Evans likely isn’t happy playing a mop-up role on defense, while getting most of his snaps on special teams. Not after 2023, when he took the field as a starting cornerback for 15 of the 15 games he was available to play.

Minnesota cut Akayleb Evans… because he isn’t very good

In 2024, Evans hasn’t seen one defensive start, in the seven games he has seen the field. But there is a reason why the Minnesota Vikings made improving their secondary a top priority this offseason, signing veterans Shaq Griffin and Stephon Gilmore, to fix the leak that was Akayleb Evans.

Don’t feel bad for Evans, because the defense is where it is this season, in large part because the Minnesota Vikings did what they had to do, and found better CB options. Remember, last year’s defense was horrible, giving up the 9th most passing yards (234.5 YPG) on a league high 25.1 receptions per game.

Not everyone buys into PFF grades, but Akayleb Evans’ were brutal last season, where he posted a 54.9 defensive grade and a 52.6 coverage grade. His tackle grade was a putrid 29.6. The now 25-year-old former Missouri Tiger gave up 48 receptions on 69 targets, good for a 69.6 QB completion percentage, when throwing his way (according to PFF). He also tallied just 1 interception and 3 passes defended (in 15 starts).

Akayleb Evans. Great defense. Same old, same old.

Onto the Chargers! #skol pic.twitter.com/zpkE9KATuj

— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) September 15, 2023

Vikings 2022 draft continues to look like a disaster

Here is the list of Minnesota Vikings 2022 draft picks, and where they are now. Only five of the 10 picks that April are still on the Vikings’ 2024 roster. Only one player from the 2022 draft is currently a starter in the league. That’s 6th round offensive tackle Vederian Lowe, who now plays for the New England Patriots.

Related: Mike Florio is Bored with the 2024 Minnesota Vikings

• 1st round (No. 32) – Lewis Cine (S): Jets Practice Squad
• 2nd round (No. 43) – Andrew Booth Jr (CB): Cowboys practice squad
• 2nd round (No. 59) – Ed Ingram (G): Vikings backup (recently benched for Dalton Risner)
• 3rd round (No. 66) – Brian Asamoah (LB): Vikings backup
• 4th round (No. 118) – Akayleb Evans (CB): Waivers (cut today by Vikings)
• 5th round (No. 165) – Esezi Otomewo (DL): Jaguars backup
• 5th round (No. 169) – Ty Chandler (RB): Vikings backup
• 6th round (No. 184) – Vederian Lowe (OT): Patriots starter
• 6th round (No. 191) – Jalen Nailor (WR): Vikings WR3
• 7th round (No. 227) – Nick Muse (TE): Vikings backup

TJ Hockenson and Dalton Risner will both be active on Sunday, for the first time all season. Unfortunately, Christian Darrisaw will not be, after he tore his ACL and MCL last week vs the Los Angeles Rams.

Minnesota Vikings Final Injury Report – Week 9 vs Colts: Blake Cashman Out

Neither will former Gopher, Blake Cashman, who was officially ruled out on Friday afternoon, after spending all week on the injury report as “DNP”. DT Taki Taimani was also ruled out, while Akayleb Evans was listed as questionable. Dalton Risner was also added later as “Questionable”, but he’s expected to play.

#INDvsMIN final injury report

OUT: Blake Cashman and Taki Taimani

QUESTIONABLE: Akayleb Evans pic.twitter.com/NloI3rH5he

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 1, 2024

Not having Blake Cashman will hurt… again. Minnesota Vikings fans and coaches have realized just how much Blake covers up for on defense, with his elite level cover skills and a football IQ that is through the roof. He’s the perfect inside linebacker for what defensive coordinator Brian Flores is trying to do.

Related: Vikings vs Colts QB Drama: Head Coach Under Fire and Not Handling It Well

Without him, sophomore ILB Ivan Pace Jr has struggled to provide consistency against the pass, constantly being picked on when the Vikings bring pressure. Can Flo find a way to counter what opposing veteran QBs have been able to do against Minnesota’s defense over the last two games?

Let’s hope so because Joe Flacco is the exact type of quarterback that this team has struggled against recently. So if those weaknesses haven’t been mended, Sunday could be a long night for Vikings fans.

Akayleb Evans questionable, David Quessenberry good to go

Sticking with defense, Akayleb Evans was listed on the practice report as “Questionable”. The 3rd-year cornerback out Missouri hasn’t gotten much of any run on defense, after general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah brought in Shaq Griffin and Stephon Gilmore during the offseason.

He’s one of the Minnesota Vikings trade pieces that they’ll be floating to teams during deadline negotiations on Monday. We’ll see if he ends up being active the night before those negotiations really heat up.

Related: Jaguars Paid Minnesota Vikings to Take Cam Robinson. Here’s Why…

A sneaky big name that is not on the final injury report this week is backup left tackle David Quessenberry, who took over mid-game last week, when Darrisaw left with his knee injury. Now that he is ready to go, does that mean we see less of our new starting left tackle, Cam Robinson?

Had Quessenberry, who was listed as “Limited” at practice on Wednesday and Thursday, not been able to play, Robinson likely would have gotten every single rep at left tackle vs the Colts. Now that he is healthy, will we see more of Quessenberry and at least a little bit less of Robinson? We’ll find out on Sunday Night Football.

Stephon Gilmore looks every bit the superstar he was brought in to be. Shaq Griffin has been great on the opposite side, and Byron Murphy Jr. is standing strong as well. And… the Vikings are reportedly interested in more cornerbacks, at the trade deadline.

That’s left Akayleb Evans as the odd man out. Suddenly, a guy who was supposed to get starting reps on the outside, even a couple weeks prior to the season, is buried on the depth chart. Thus, he’s become a prime trade candidate leading up to the trade deadline on November 5 for Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

Akayleb Evans on the Minnesota Vikings trade block

Akayleb Evans, who was listed on the Minnesota Vikings final injury report Wednesday as ‘questionable’, was a 4th round draft pick by the purple, back in 2022. He drew a couple of starts as a rookie, before he started 15 games in 2023, his sophomore NFL season. The past results, when Evans has been on the field, have been mixed.

After the Gilmore signing, though, Evans has largely been an afterthought on the Vikings defense. The former Missouri Tiger has logged just three total snaps, on that side of the ball, to go with the 62 he’s logged on special teams. For all of those reasons, ESPN’s Kevin Seifert believes the third year CB could be on the move.

“Cornerback Akayleb Evans. Evans started two games as a rookie in 2022 and 15 last season, but he is now buried on the depth chart behind veterans Stephon Gilmore, Byron Murphy Jr. and Shaquill Griffin. At 6-foot-2 and 198 pounds, he has the kind of size that teams covet at the position. The Vikings aren’t necessarily looking to move him, and he could be elevated based on injuries, but at the moment there isn’t a clear path for him to get on the field.”

Kevin Siefert on Akayleb Evans (ESPN)

Shopping Evans makes sense for everyone

It makes a good amount of sense for Minnesota shop Evans around the trade market, just to see what they can find. Most likely, he isn’t all that happy with his role right now, either. According to PFF, the 25-year-old CB has just one tackle on the season, to go with one missed tackle. Both came on special teams and the tackle was an assist.

Related: 4 Bold Predictions for Minnesota Vikings’ Week 8 Matchup vs Rams

Those are Akayleb Evans’ 2024 statistics. So, if another team is looking for a young, talented cornerback who hangs out on social media a bit too much, then the Vikings have the perfect kid.

First career interception for Akayleb Evans! pic.twitter.com/kqfhozrp0n

— VikingzFanPage (@vikingzfanpage) December 16, 2023

As Siefert points out, there’s no real reason for the Vikings to give Evans away. Although his results have been a rollercoaster, he did emerge as a starting option, just a season or two ago. It’s unlikely they are ready to give up on a talented defensive back, unless a team comes with a reasonable offer.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Sign Fan Favorite Rookie to Active Roster, Dump Tight End

Evans’ body plays well at the position, and the Vikings have seen what happens when their corner depth is non-existent. It’s believed the Minnesota Vikings will be active before the trade deadline. Without a doubt, Evans is still an asset that many possible trade partners will have interest in.

It’s clear the arrow is pointed straight up right now, but who has improved their stock the most through five weeks? Better yet, which Vikings have lowered their stock the most? Below, we dive into the 13 biggest winners and losers through five weeks of play.

Related: What We Learned About the Minnesota Vikings in London Win Over Jets

Winner: Sam Darnold

Prior to the Vikings’ Week 5 win, Darnold was looking like an early MVP candidate. His stats no longer have him leading the NFL in passing yards, but he still ranks second, and the rest of his numbers are still respectable.

• Sam Darnold stats: 63.5% comp. rate, 1,111 passing yards, 11 TD, 4 INT – 64.9 PFF grade (22nd among QBs)

Even if Darnold’s stats aren’t as gaudy as they once were, he’s still 5-0. As long as the Vikings keep winning, he’ll stay in the MVP conversation, but expecting him to win over other heavyweights like Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, or Patrick Mahomes is wishful thinking.

Still, he’s put himself in position to earn a massive payday from another team at the end of the season, and he’ll always have a special place in the Vikings’ hearts for taking a chance on him. After all, there’s no doubt the Vikings wouldn’t be on top of the NFC North without the former first-round pick.

Related: Where does Sam Darnold land in the latest NFL QB Rankings?

Loser: Ty Chandler

Entering the season, speculation pointed to Chandler nearly splitting rushing opportunities with Aaron Jones. Those reports couldn’t have been more wrong. We’ll get to Jones in a second, but this space is specially reserved for the Vikings’ backup running back.

Chandler has flashed moments of greatness. On Sunday, he had a 32-yard rush called back due to an illegal formation that had nothing to do with him. Otherwise? He’s been fairly ineffective rushing behind the same line Jones is thriving behind.

He’s carried the ball 42 times for 147 yards and zero touchdowns. That equates to just a 3.5 YPC average. For a point of reference, that’s worse than the 3.9 YPC Alexander Mattison averaged last season. In other words, Chandler just hasn’t gotten the job done.

Related: NFL Expert Kevin Durant Believes in the Minnesota Vikings and Sam Darnold

Winner: Aaron Jones

Chandler hasn’t lived up to the coaching staff’s expectations, but Jones definitely has. It’s clear the Vikings got a bargain by signing the former Packers Pro Bowl rusher to a one-year, $7 million contract. In fact, it might be time to see if he’s interested in a short-term extension.

The Vikings have been significantly better this season when Aaron Jones is on the field 💪

With Jones (165 plays)

– EPA per play: 0.02
– Yards per play: 6.1
– Plays resulting in a TD or 1st down: 30.9%
– Completion %: 72.5
– Success rate: 47.3%
– Yards per pass attempt: 9.7
-… https://t.co/NnJHi3Qxlx pic.twitter.com/lNxOPIiuBD

— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) October 7, 2024

When healthy, Jones has helped power an offense that ranks sixth in scoring this season. He’s done so while averaging a robust 4.9 YPC, racking up 350 yards and a rushing touchdown on 71 carries. Darnold has also learned to rely on him as a pass-catcher, where the 30-year-old has tacked on an additional 167 receiving yards and a TD catch on 17 receptions.

As great as some of the other free agency signings have been, a strong case can be made that Jones has been the single greatest addition to the Vikings’ roster this offseason. Yet, there are plenty of other contenders who can claim that title too.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Injury News: Latest Update on Aaron Jones Hip Injury

Loser: Ed Ingram

You already know the story. The Vikings selected Ed Ingram with the 59th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He was selected ahead of several players who have since become Pro Bowlers such as James Cook (Dalvin’s brother), Riq Woolen, and Brock Purdy.

Sure, he’s been a constant fixture in the starting lineup for all 37 games of his career. The issue is he grades very poorly in pass protection. This year he has a 29.4 grade per Pro Football Focus for his pass blocking. He’s lightyears ahead as a run blocker, with a still below-average grade of 62.2. Add it all up, and Ingram ranks 61st among 70 guards graded by PFF this season. In other words, he’s replaceable.

Does @Vikings RG Ed Ingram need replaced once G Dalton Risner is healthy?

Thru 5 weeks (per @PFF)*:
💥Overall: 52.7 (155 of 177)
💥Run Block: 62.2 (107 of 177)
💥Pass Block: 29.4 (173 of 177)
💥3 sacks (159 of 177)
💥1 QB hit (T-64 of 177)
💥13 QB hurries (176 of 177)
💥17 QB… pic.twitter.com/86s6vs6kjS

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) October 7, 2024

Related: Minnesota Vikings Fans Love Aaron Jones… but Not Like His Former QB Does

Winner: Patrick Jones II

Feeling like they needed more pass-rushers, the Vikings traded up to select Dallas Turner in the first round of April’s draft. Yet, if Brian Flores knew how much production he’d get from Patrick Jones II as he enters a contract year, maybe Turner would have never been selected.

Obviously Turner is still the future at the position, but Jones has performed very well in a rotational role. It’s been just five games, but he’s already up to a career-high five sacks this season. That’s included back-to-back two-sack performances to start the season after cooling off as of late.

Still, for a 26-year-old in a career year, Jones is setting himself up for a nice payday in free agency, and it probably won’t come from the Vikings with them already invested in Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Turner.

Related: Rich Eisen Called Out by Internet (and KFAN) for Biased Call of Vikings vs Jets

Loser: Dallas Turner

Have you seen Dallas Turner? To be fair, the 17th overall pick was one of the youngest players selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, at just 21 years old. The Vikings didn’t add him to the roster and expect Turner to be the team’s defensive MVP as a rookie.

Turner did miss a game with an injury, and he’s played just 78 defensive snaps, or 27% of the team’s plays when he’s healthy. But let’s not even think about placing a bust label on this sack artist yet. He did record a sack in his NFL debut, and even blew up a play in Sunday’s win over the Jets.

Yet, for those who expected Turner to compete for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award have to be a bit disappointed so far. But Turner’s slow start is due to no fault of his own, it’s simply due to how well his teammates ahead of him on the depth chart are playing.

Related: Top 10 Minnesota Vikings 1st Round Draft Picks of All-Time

Winner: Andrew Van Ginkel

Admit it, when Andrew Van Ginkel signed, many Vikings fans asked, “Who?” It hasn’t taken the Iowa native long to make an impression. In fact, he’s made a case to be the Vikings’ defensive MVP thus far. Some NFL experts are even asking themselves whether AVG is the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year right now.

Andrew Van Ginkel, who also had an interception-return TD in Week 1, is the first player in @NFL history with 3 sacks and multiple interception-return TDs in his team's first 5 games of a season. https://t.co/2napWrXhKy

— NFL345 (@NFL345) October 6, 2024

Van Ginkel has an elite 90.8 coverage grade via PFF through five weeks (best mark among edge rushers). Which is crazy, considering his primary job is to rush the passer.

But his unique skillset is exactly what the Vikings were attracted to. When quarterbacks line up at the line of scrimmage, they have absolutely no clue whether Van Ginkel is about to drop back in coverage or rush full speed at their feet. It’s working to perfection.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Partying Like it’s 1998

Loser: Levi Drake Rodriguez

Let’s not be too harsh here. Levi Drake Rodriguez was always considered a longshot prospect from the very moment he arrived with the Vikings as the 232nd pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Many seventh-round picks like him don’t even make the team.

Yet, LDR snuck onto the roster thanks to a non-stop motor plus a lack of defensive line depth in Minnesota. However, we’ve seen fellow undrafted rookie Taki Taimani active for all five games, and Rodriguez has been a healthy scratch in all five.

But this means nothing in the grand scheme. Odds are, the Vikings are still very high on the 24-year-old prospect, he may just need a bit more seasoning before the coaching staff feels they can trust him in a live game.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Already ‘Love’ Their New Longshot NFL Prospect X

Winner: Stephon Gilmore

When the Vikings were sniffing around Stephon Gilmore, many fans said, “Don’t bother.” This was partially because he was still unsigned. If 31 other teams don’t want him, why should the Vikings? It likely didn’t help that Gilmore is also 34 years old.

The haters couldn’t have been more wrong. Gilmore has assumed the No. 1 cornerback job from the moment he put on pads, and the Vikings’ defense has never looked back. So far, through five games, Minnesota’s pass defense is one of the best in the NFL, allowing the sixth-fewest yards per attempt, and having the most interceptions.

Gilmore’s superpowers were on full display in the Vikings’ Week 5 win over the Jets, where the former DPOY winner leaped in front of an errant Aaron Rodgers pass to clinch yet another victory for the fellas in purple. Gilmore’s been a breath of fresh air for a secondary that had more questions than answers before the season kicked off.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Draft Picks 2025: Tracking Future Vikings Draft Picks, Vikings Draft History

Loser: Byron Murphy Jr.

No cornerback has been targeted more than Byron Murphy Jr through five weeks. Quarterbacks have thrown his way 48 times. He’s allowed a catch on 35 of those opportunities. Thus, no other player has allowed more yards in coverage than Murphy, who’s allowed 405 yards, and two touchdowns.

Murphy has recorded an interception, but he’s also missed more tackles than any other cornerback (tied with former Viking Mike Hughes at 9). This has led to pass-catchers picking up an additional 144 yards after catch.

Among corners who have played at least 50% of their team’s snaps, Murphy grades 50th overall, which suggests he’s been no better than average. Yet, with the 26-year-old in a contract year, it’s possible the Vikings try replacing him during the offseason. Then again, he’s still young, so maybe learning from Pro Bowl corners like Gilmore and Shaq Griffin can help Murphy learn a thing or two too.

Related: Top 10 Minnesota Vikings QB Draft Picks of All-Time

Winner: Cam Bynum

Another Vikings defender setting himself up to cash in during free agency is Camryn Bynum. He’s in the final year of his rookie deal, but is tied for the team lead with two interceptions. He’s also just nine tackles behind Blake Cashman for the team lead, showing his versatility in coverage and in run support.

Once Harrison Smith says his farewell, the Vikings will still be in good hands, knowing Bynum and Josh Metellus will maintain some level of consistency in Minnesota’s secondary. But for now, Bynum’s showing he’s not only one of the best defenders on the team, but possibly even good enough to earn the first Pro Bowl nod of his career. Plus, his celebration game is immaculate.

Cam Bynum: "We're on a generational celebration run right now. This might've been one of my favorites. It's one of my favorite movies. It's based on London. I watched that movie last week, and I'm, like, 'This is it.'" https://t.co/rnbCAmOK21

— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) October 6, 2024

Related: Do the Minnesota Vikings have the NFL’s best defense?

Loser: Akayleb Evans

Before the season kicked off, Akayleb Evans was being looked at as a potential starting cornerback. Yet, after adding Gilmore and Griffin, the 2022 fourth-round pick has completely fallen out of favor. Instead of playing valuable snaps on defense, the Vikings have stuffed Evans into a special teams role, where he gave everyone multiple scares against the Jets.

First, Evans collided with punt returner Brandon Powell, which could have led to a fumble and/or a change of possession. Of course, the replay showed Evans got pushed into Powell, so there wasn’t an issue, but unless he starts thriving in his new role, the 25-year-old’s long-term future in Minnesota could be in serious doubt.

Related: Top Minnesota Vikings Moments in Team History

Winner: Brian Flores

Is there really a bigger winner than Brian Flores? The second-year Vikings defensive coordinator somehow didn’t receive a single head coaching interview last season. His lawsuit against the NFL may have something to do with the non-interest.

Yet, at some point, if you’re a team making a new hire, how can you not reconsider Flores to lead your organization? There have been nothing but positive reports about the coach since he arrived in Minnesota, and his defenses are causing fits for every quarterback it takes on.

The Vikings went from allowing 21.3 points per game in 2023 to just 15.2 in 2024, where they currently allow the fourth-fewest points in the league. Allowing the second-fewest yards per rush (3.6) has certainly played a key factor, but the Vikings aren’t just geared to stop the run, they also have recorded the second-most sacks in the NFL. Brian Flores, you are a hero.

Related: There’s a New Graphic Trying to Put the Minnesota Vikings in the Super Bowl…

Loser: Brandon Powell

When the Vikings are 5-0, it’s hard to find someone to pick on. But we couldn’t make a list full of winners, because there’s some darkness in this world too.

Brandon Powell gets a bad rap here, but it’s not because he’s been this horrible player or anything. He hasn’t gotten many opportunities since losing the third WR role to Jalen Nailor, but he has maintained his job as the team’s leading returner.

Yet, there just haven’t been many chances for him to thrive yet thus far. He’s only taken seven punt returns, where he’s gained 36 yards. That ranks second-worst in the NFL in yards per return, albeit in a very small sample size. At least he’s not muffing punts!

Related: Kevin O’Connell Takes Lead in NFL Coach of the Year Race

Minnesota Vikings injury report looking even better on Thursday

On Wednesday, the only “Did Not Practice” was CB Akayleb Evans, and it was due to an illness. On Thursday,
Evans was back practicing at full. Even better news, nobody new was added. MLB Ivan Pace Jr (Ankle) also went from limited yesterday to a full participant today. TE Josh Oliver (Wrist) and WR Brandon Powell (Chest) were the only Vikings players who weren’t fully available.

Thursday’s #Vikings injury report pic.twitter.com/EjzhSksMCU

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) October 3, 2024

Last week, Jordan Addison returned to the Vikings starting lineup, and made an immediate impact, forcing the Green Bay Packers defense forcing them to pull back on some of the extra attention they were trying to pay to Justin Jefferson. Now, Ivan Pace Jr is set to return on defense, making Brian Flores’ elite unit even better.

Darnold was listed on the initial week 5 Minnesota Vikings injury report, which was released on Wednesday. Even then, he was marked as a full participant. As of now, every starter on the roster, outside of TE TJ Hockenson, is expected to be on the field. But even the Pro Bowl tight end returned to practice this week, too.

Related: Most Valuable Minnesota Vikings Players So Far (Week 5)

The final Minnesota Vikings injury report will release on Friday. Remember, Sunday’s game is not the normal noon early time. Jets vs Vikings will kickoff at 8:30 a.m. CDT. So set your alarm, brew your coffee, and get your fantasy football lineup ready to go bright and early.

The 2022 fourth-round pick was once viewed as a potential starter this season, especially after making 15 starts in 2023. However, several veterans, including Stephon Gilmore and Shaq Griffin, have since been added to the secondary. With Byron Murphy holding down the other starting role, this leaves the 25-year-old on the outside looking in.

While the Vikings could keep the former 118th overall pick on the roster in hopes of him furthering his development, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah may have other plans.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Draft Picks 2025: Tracking Future Vikings Draft Picks, Vikings Draft History

Akayleb Evans hits trade block as Vikings seek more 2025 draft capital

Akayleb Evans is no better than fourth on the current Vikings depth chart. We’ve seen how quickly injuries can push a backup into a starting position. But Evans hasn’t shown that he’s a special talent after two years of his career. As a recent draft pick, he may still have value to teams in need of adding depth to their secondary.

According to The Athletic’s Alec Lewis, the Vikings’ newfound depth could make Evans a prime trade candidate.

“Why is Akayleb Evans absent from this list? Not because he’s been cut but because, in this projection, a trade feels possible. The Vikings have three draft picks (a first-rounder and two fifth-rounders). They’re in line for at least one compensation pick, too, but adding more darts seems smart. Parting with Evans also opens the door for McGlothern, who has displayed a knack for the ball all camp. The Vikings don’t have an obvious backup nickel cornerback with these five, but Flores has not been afraid to use Metellus or Camryn Bynum in that role if necessary.”

Alec Lewis on Akayleb Evans being a trade candidate

Lewis wisely points out the emergence of 22-year-old undrafted rookie Dwight McGlothern possibly contributing to Evans’ potential dismissal. While the 6-foot-2 cornerback saw 257 other players drafted instead of him, he’s since shown why overlooking him was a mistake.

His size is exactly what Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores prefers from cornerbacks, and since he’s three years younger than Evans, there’s a case to be made that he actually has a higher ceiling. So, if the Vikings can trade Evans, who has two years left on his contract, for a late-round pick, likely in the sixth or seventh round, it would only help rebuild their draft capital heading into next offseason.

If Evans doesn’t make the cut, it would help open up another roster spot, which could go to a safety, such as Jay Ward, who saw time at cornerback during training camp. Or maybe it goes to a veteran, like Fabian Moreau or Bobby McCain, who also has experience playing corner. Either way, it makes sense to see how much interest other teams have in Evans.

Related: Vikings’ Kwesi Adofo-Mensah Looking to Add More Draft Capital?

Minnesota Vikings giving Akayleb Evans lots of run

This offseason additions at the cornerback position have been sparse for the Minnesota Vikings. Tragedy took 2024 draft pick Khyree Jackson. Shaq Griffin signed as a veteran free agent. Fabian Moreau recently signed as a training camp addition. Internally, Akayleb Evans seems to be getting plenty of run. ESPN Staff Writer Kevin Seifert has seen plenty of the former fourth round pick.

“Meanwhile, 2023 starter Akayleb Evans, who opened camp as a reserve after being benched twice last season, has been a fixture with the first-team defense alongside Byron Murphy Jr.“

Kevin Seifert on Vikings cornerback Akayleb Evans

Defensive coordinator Brian Flores also offered a sentiment saying that, “we’re going to need him.”

There have been conflicting reports regarding the performance or viability of Evans during training camp. The first depth chart has Griffin starting alongside Murphy Jr. with Evans listed as a backup. Minnesota would certainly love to seem someone from a depth spot step up and challenge their starters.

Related: So… Lewis Cine Hasn’t Practiced with the Vikings in a While

Akayleb Evans will need to regain starting role for Minnesota Vikings

Nothing is guaranteed for Evans this season. Evans started 15 games last season for Minnesota. He played on 85% of the defensive snaps. Those numbers are certain to tumble with the addition of Griffin on the outside. Evans didn’t see a special teams snap after participating in 93% of them as a rookie. Evans could by working his way back through special teams.

Interception! Akayleb Evans! pic.twitter.com/5BDZrqO040

— vikesinsider (@vikesinsider) December 16, 2023

There have certainly been times where Evans has looked the part. He had an interception last season, and recorded seven passes defensed. His 65 tackles were impressive, and calling him a starting corner at his best wasn’t a stretch. The problem was that Evans at his worst looked lost or unengaged. Flores will expect Evans to show up on a weekly basis, and he won’t be given leeway to underperform in his third professional season.

Related: Report: Minnesota Vikings Planning Splash Move at Cornerback

2024 fourth-round draft pick, who was showing potential thus far in the offseason, Khyree Jackson was killed in a car crash just a few weeks back. A couple weeks later, second-year cornerback Mekhi Blackmon tore his ACL on the very first day of Minnesota Vikings’ Training Camp. The cornerback room seems cursed right now.

Zero confidence in cornerbacks Akayleb Evans and Andrew Booth Jr.

Appearing on KFAN this past week, Minnesota Vikings’ beat writer Alec Lewis (The Athletic) had some extremely critical thoughts on cornerbacks Evans and Booth Jr. Words that might be warranted too.

According to @Alec_Lewis via @KFAN1003, he has ZERO confidence that #Vikings CB Akayleb Evans is going to be successful this year and CB Andrew Booth Jr. he feels even worse about 👀

“Like I got to, I'm just speaking from what I've seen and what I've talked to, people I've… pic.twitter.com/FTWK2jq2jq

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) July 26, 2024

Like I got to, I’m just speaking from what I’ve seen and what I’ve talked to, people I’ve talked to, like I have zero confidence… that Akayleb Evans is going to be really successful as a cornerback this year. I just can’t rely on that at all. Andrew Booth Jr., I feel even worse about.

Alec Lewis (The Athletic) via KFAN

There wasn’t a whole lot said, but it’s quite clear that Lewis has zero confidence in Evans or Booth Jr. to step up and take one of the starting outside cornerback spots. He goes even further stating that he feels even worse about Booth Jr. compared to Evans.

What’s the issue with Minnesota Vikings’ cornerbacks Akayleb Evans and Andrew Booth Jr.?

Evans is coming into his third year in the NFL after being drafted in the fourth-round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He’s been benched numerous times throughout his tenure here in Minnesota. He’s posted an abysmal 47.2 overall defensive Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade his rookie year. His 2023 season wasn’t much better either where he posted a slightly better overall defensive PFF grade of 54.9.

Booth Jr. was also drafted in the 2022 NFL draft but in the second-round. He hasn’t faired much better posting an overall defensive PFF grade of 45.3 his rookie year and 68.6 last year. However, he only played 256 snaps in 2023.

Related: Vikings’ Cornerback Might Have Cringiest Interview in Team History

Both of these players have a lot to prove this year. They’ve struggled understanding the defense and can’t seem to figure out a way to cement themselves as a reliable corner. They now have a perfect opportunity in front of them to show the team that they belong in the NFL.

Now it’s up to coach Kevin O’Connell to get the most out of the pieces he’s been given. So, which Vikings training camp battles can fans look forward to?

Related: Top 10 Minnesota Vikings QB Draft Picks of All-Time

Minnesota Vikings fans get first QB competition since 2014

It’s crazy to think back, but the Vikings haven’t headed into the season with a quarterback battle since 2014, when it was either Teddy Bridgewater, Matt Cassel, or Christian Ponder. It’s a similar scenario this year, only J.J. McCarthy, selected tenth, was drafted far ahead of Bridgewater, who was the final player picked in the first round.

Vikings coaches have done their best to lower expectations of the 21-year-old while hyping up former No. 2 overall pick Sam Darnold. But teams don’t take players in the top ten and then sit them on the bench all year long.

Darnold may very well be in for a career year, but if McCarthy looks ahead of the curve, the coaching staff may not have a choice but to start him. Once the locker room becomes convinced he’s ‘the guy,’ there’s no looking back.

Related: Top 10 Minnesota Vikings 1st Round Draft Picks of All-Time

Who will snag the Vikings’ WR3 role?

After letting K.J. Osborn leave in free agency, the Vikings suddenly have a gaping hole at the third receiver position. The in-house leader to snag the WR3 role is Brandon Powell, who’s seemingly Coach O’Connell’s teacher’s pet. But there are several worthy competitors too.

Vikings coaches have also propped up Jalen “Speedy” Nailor for a couple of seasons now. Injuries have held him back, but if Nailor can stay on the field, he may prove to be the best pure receiver of the bunch. There’s always the chance that Trent Sherfield Sr, Lucky Jackson, or possibly even an outside addition becomes the third receiver behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison too.

Related: Vikings’ Star Tight End Has Some Big Praise for Rookie QB

MN Vikings training camp battles in trenches could be pivotal

The Vikings’ interior offensive line has been a weak point for several seasons now. Garrett Bradbury finding his way in 2022 was a much-needed development, and the same goes for Ed Ingram last season. But there are still question marks at left guard, despite Dalton Risner providing a steady hand in 2023.

Now the Vikings are starting from scratch, opening up the competition at guard between Risner, Ingram (who probably isn’t at risk of losing his job), and Blake Brandel. The Vikings didn’t give Brandel near-starter money just so he could stick around as a trusted backup; he’s definitely in the mix to start. Yet, competition breeds excellence, so maybe lighting a fire along the interior is just what this team needs.

Related: Blake Cashman is Gushing Over New Vikings Teammate, JJ McCarthy

Defensive line rotation is up for grabs in Minnesota

Arguably the Vikings’ biggest weakness heading into the season, the Vikings NEED to identify a difference-maker along the defensive line. Harrison Phillips is an above-average player, but he’ll never be elite, and he needs some help.

Unlike other areas of the team (defensive backs), the Vikings’ new regime hasn’t invested much draft capital into the defensive trenches. Edge rusher, sure, but not on the interior. However, the Vikings have a collection of ‘bodies’ who could snag a starting role. Along with Phillips, Jonathan Bullard, and Jerry Tillery are the expected starters, but don’t sleep on 2023 fifth-round pick Jaquelin Roy or James Lynch from earning a role either.

We also can’t forget about the fire inside Levi Drake Rodriguez’s heart. The rest of the NFL passed on LDR several times over before the Vikings ended his freefall as the 232nd overall pick. But coaches love his motor, giving him just as strong of a chance as any other competitor in this dogfight.

Related: Two of the Best Safeties in Football Should be Minnesota Vikings

Vikings cornerback battle will be fierce

Byron Murphy Jr replaced Patrick Peterson as the Vikings’ top cornerback with ease last season. After that? The jobs are up for grabs. Shaq Griffin, as a former Pro Bowl cornerback, is a good bet to hold down a starting role.

But Mekhi Blackmon and Akayleb Evans won’t make it easy. They combined for 18 starts last season (15 for Evans, 3 for Blackmon). There’s always the possibility Andrew Booth Jr shows up healthy and ready to live up to his potential as a former second-round pick, too; he’s only 23.

That’s not even accounting for 2023 undrafted rookies Jaylin Williams, NaJee Thompson, or the safety/cornerback hybrid Jay Ward. There’s a lot of competition here. Aside from the perceived QB battle, watching the corners slug it out might be the next best show in town.

Related: Kevin O’Connell Cannot Comprehend Why Other Teams Don’t Want Brian Flores

Kicking competition: Will Reichard or John Parker Romo?

Kickers are people too. The Vikings let Greg Joseph test free agency, which led to him joining a three-headed Green Bay Packers competition. Good luck.

Meanwhile, the Vikings have turned their attention to All-XFL kicker John Parker Romo, who’s spent time with the Saints, Lions, and Bears. But he’s never kicked in an NFL game. Although, some kickers just take longer to find their way, and it’s possible the 26-year-old is ready for primetime.

But then there’s Will Reichard, who the Vikings couldn’t wait to make the first kicker drafted back in April. The sixth-round pick out of Alabama has a big boot, which should play well in U.S. Bank Stadium, and coaches are already impressed. Since the Vikings used a draft pick on Reichard, it’s hard to imagine him losing his roster spot, but it all depends on the competition.

Related: ESPN: Vikings Should Have NFL’s Best Weapons