After a shocking cut by the Vikings, former running back and kick returner Kene Nwangwu is no longer with Minnesota. While Nwangwu didn’t show much as a runner, he was a valuable part of the Vikings’ special teams, and Minnesota is now searching for a new returner.
According to the Vikings’ official depth chart, it would appear that running back Ty Chandler would be the top kicker returner. Wide receiver Brandon Powell is listed behind Chandler as the second option.
Chandler has four career kick returners for 97 yards.
The Vikings currently have just two running backs on their roster, which is abnormal. Most teams have three or four running backs on their roster, and it’s almost a certainty Minnesota will add at least one more running back. If not, it’s unlikely Chandler would stay as kick returner, being the second option to Aaron Jones.
Powell and Jalen Nailor are expected to handle the punt return duties.