For the second year in a row, the Vikings lost DE Danielle Hunter to a season-ending injury. Once again, Minnesota needs a young defensive end to step up in Hunter’s absence.
Kenny Willekes could be that defensive end. The Vikings elevated Willekes for the second consecutive week. Minnesota added him via COVID-19 replacement this time. When he played against the Cowboys in Week 8, Willekes had a hurry in 16 defensive snaps.
Besides Willekes, Minnesota has Everson Griffen, D.J. Wonnum and Patrick Jones II as the only edge options on the active roster for the Week 9 game against the Ravens. The Vikings lack depth at defensive end with Hunter out. That makes Willekes an obvious candidate for a call-up.
Willekes showed promise in the preseason this year. He can add something to the pass rush as Minnesota’s depleted defensive line faces Baltimore this week.
Minnesota also signed C Cohl Cabral and C Spencer Pulley to the practice squad on Saturday. The Vikings released DE Nate Orchard from the practice squad.