More roster moves for the Vikings before Sunday’s game

In addition to activating cornerback Cameron Dantzler from the reserve/COVID-19 list on Saturday afternoon, the Vikings made a host of other roster moves leading up to their contest in Green Bay on Sunday. Let’s run down all of them for you here.

The team has activated rookie linebacker Troy Dye from injured reserve. Dye was designated for return from IR earlier this week, and that opened up a 21-day window that allowed him to practice with the team and allow the Vikings to decide whether to add him to the 53-man roster. Apparently the Vikings have liked what they’ve seen, and with Todd Davis now on the COVID-19 list, Dye figures to see a lot of action in the Vikings’ defense at linebacker.

Guard Pat Elflein, who was also designated for return from IR earlier this week, has not been added to the 53-man roster yet, suggesting that either Ezra Cleveland or Dru Samia will start again at right guard on Sunday.

Cornerback Chris Jones was also added to the active roster. Jones was signed earlier this week, and the Vikings had an exemption for him while he cleared COVID-19 protocols. He’s officially on the 53 now, though.

The saga of offensive lineman Brett Jones continues, as he’s been elevated to the active roster as a COVID-19 replacement. Jones was released by the Vikings earlier this week, but then re-signed to the practice squad.

The Vikings have also elevated safety Luther Kirk and defensive tackle Hercules Mata’afa from the practice squad. This is one of the two times that the Vikings will be able to elevate each of those players to the active roster without having to subject them to waivers when they are sent back down.

With that, the Vikings appear to be ready for their trip to Lambeau Field on Sunday afternoon. Will these moves have significant impact? We’ll have to wait and see.