Vikings Finalize Roster Cuts Ahead of Regular Season Opener

EAGAN, Minn. - The Minnesota Vikings wasted no time in trimming their roster as they worked towards the NFL deadline of finalizing their 53-man squad. Today, the team announced their first round of cuts, making some expected moves to reduce their player count.

Running backs DeWayne McBride and Mo Ibrahim were among the casualties, along with depth quarterback Matt Corral and several undrafted free agents. The decision to part ways with McBride and Ibrahim, although disappointing for the players, didn't come as a complete surprise as the Vikings already boast a solid running back corps.

One noteworthy player who may be in danger of being cut is safety Lewis Cine. Cine was the Vikings' first draft pick under the leadership of new general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. However, plagued by injuries during his rookie season, Cine has struggled to impress in a talented safety group, leading to speculation about his future with the team.

Fans will also be eager to see if promising preseason standouts, defensive tackle Levi Drake Rodriguez and cornerback Dwight McGlothern, manage to secure spots on the final roster. With the deadline set at 3 p.m., the Vikings have little time left to finalize their decisions.

Even after the roster deadline passes, the Vikings are likely to remain active as they search for potential additions to their team among the players who have been cut by other franchises. As the regular season approaches, the Vikings are preparing to face the New York Giants on September 8th, with quarterback Sam Darnold leading the charge.

Unfortunately, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will have to wait until 2025 to make his highly anticipated debut due to a preseason injury. McCarthy suffered a torn meniscus, requiring him to focus on his recovery before taking the field.

Prior to the roster cuts, the Vikings made significant moves during the offseason to strengthen their team. In addition to drafting McCarthy, the team traded up to acquire pass rusher Dallas Turner in the first round. They also secured wide receiver Justin Jefferson and left tackle Christian Darrisaw with lucrative contract extensions. The defense received a boost with the signings of several free agents, including former Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore.

In recent news, it was reported that running back Kene Nwangwu and defensive tackle Jaquelin Roy may be moved on from the team. However, the Vikings will make efforts to trade both players before considering their release. Veteran running back Myles Gaskin and defensive back Bobby McCain have been released, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Two-year pass rusher Andre Carter II is expected to be waived, as reported by NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. Furthermore, defensive tackle James Lynch is also reportedly on the chopping block, as announced by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Lastly, pass rusher Bo Richter and offensive lineman Tyrese Robinson will not be part of the final roster, stated NFL reporter Aaron Wilson.

As the Vikings' roster begins to take shape, the team aims to field a competitive and well-rounded squad as they embark on their journey for success in the upcoming season.