In preparation for the upcoming NFL season, the Minnesota Vikings made a series of roster adjustments on Tuesday, waving or releasing 20 players, placing four on injured lists, and finalizing their initial 53-man roster. The team's decisions emphasized youthful talent and development potential, with some familiar faces no longer in their plans. However, the Vikings may welcome back some released players on their practice squad, which can be formed starting Wednesday afternoon.

One notable move that raised eyebrows was the waiver of fourth-year running back and kick returner Kene Nwangwu. Despite showcasing his progress with impressive runs in the preseason, the team apparently did not include him in their plans for the new kickoff return format. Surprisingly, Nwangwu did not receive a single opportunity to prove himself during the preseason. As a result, the Vikings may look to add another running back for depth purposes and re-sign players to the practice squad.

On the receiving front, the Vikings opted to retain six wide receivers, thanks to the solid performances of Trishton Jackson and Trent Sherfield Sr. throughout the summer. The team is likely to keep a couple of receivers on the practice squad as well, ensuring depth at this crucial position.

In terms of injuries, tight end T.J. Hockenson, who did not participate in team practices this summer, will be sidelined for at least four games due to a torn ACL. The earliest chance for his return is on October 6 when the Vikings face the Jets in London. Hockenson has been observed engaging in various rehab exercises on a separate field, away from the team, during practices. Head coach Kevin O'Connell expressed satisfaction with Hockenson's progress on August 22.

Regarding the offensive line, the starting lineup was established back in May, with Blake Brandel stepping in for an injured Dalton Risner at left guard. The only change of note is the addition of Michael Jurgens, a seventh-round pick, as the ninth blocker. Risner is one of two players the Vikings can designate for short-term IR, which would keep them out of action for at least four games.

When it comes to the Vikings' edge rushers, four out of the five players in the group are new compared to last year. Patrick Jones II, a third-round pick in the 2021 draft, is the sole returning member. The Vikings are optimistic about Jones' potential to disrupt opposing quarterbacks this season. Another intriguing edge rusher, Gabriel Murphy, an undrafted free agent who showed promise in the preseason, missed most of the training camp due to an undisclosed injury. There is a possibility that Murphy could make a return for the October 6 game against the Jets.

With the initial 53-man roster set, the Vikings will continue to fine-tune their lineup in the days leading up to their season opener against the New York Giants on September 8. Meanwhile, the team will begin forming their 17-man practice squad on Wednesday, which may see the return of some familiar faces that were waived or released.

As the regular season approaches, the Vikings and their fans eagerly anticipate the debut of their revamped roster, filled with emerging talent and seasoned contributors alike.