The Vikings downgraded T.J. Hockenson and Dalton Risner to out for Thursday’s game against the Rams, though Hockenson is expected to be activated from injured reserve on Friday in time for his season debut against the Colts on Nov. 3.
Vikings’ T.J. Hockenson, Dalton Risner out for Thursday night game vs. the Rams
Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson and offensive guard Dalton Risner were not activated before kickoff of the team’s game in Los Angeles. Rams receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua will return from injuries.
The Minnesota Star Tribune
October 24, 2024 at 10:58PM
Hockenson has been practicing while recovering from ACL surgery on his right knee in January, while Risner is coming back from a back injury. The Vikings elevated defensive lineman Jalen Redmond and tight end Robert Tonyan from the practice squad for the game in Los Angeles. This is the team’s last elevation for Tonyan, the veteran reserve who would have to be signed to the active roster to play after Thursday night.
Vikings starting linebacker Blake Cashman (turf toe) and reserve cornerback Akayleb Evans (hip) have been ruled out. Both will miss a second straight game due to their injuries.
The Rams activated receiver Puka Nacua from injured reserve for the game for his first action since sustaining a knee injury in the season opener. Star receiver Cooper Kupp is also expected to play Thursday, returning from a Week 2 ankle injury.
Vikings’ inactives: Cashman (toe), Evans (hip), CB Dwight McGlothern, DT Levi Drake Rodriguez, OT Walter Rouse and RB Myles Gaskin
Rams’ inactives: LB Troy Reeder (hamstring), WR Jordan Whittington (shoulder), QB Stetson Bennett IV, CB Tre’Davious White, RB Cody Schrader and DE Desjuan Johnson
Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold is completing more passes more often for more touchdowns than he ever has. “What we’re trying to get from Sam is to play the best football of his career,” coach Kevin O'Connell said.
