Vikings make roster moves with return of All Pro in mind, show support for struggling star

Injuries have been a challenge this season for the Minnesota Vikings.  One of the things that was an issue for them this season was when their long snapper Andrew DePaola and kicker Will Reichard went on injured reserve. Missing out on two players who are key to the success of special teams could have made […]

Tyler Forness NFL & College Football News Writer
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Dec 10, 2023; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Minnesota Vikings place kicker Greg Joseph (1) celebrates with Minnesota Vikings long snapper Andrew DePaola (42) after kicking a field goal against the Las Vegas Raiders during the fourth quarter at Allegiant Stadium.
Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Injuries have been a challenge this season for the Minnesota Vikings. 

One of the things that was an issue for them this season was when their long snapper Andrew DePaola and kicker Will Reichard went on injured reserve. Missing out on two players who are key to the success of special teams could have made a huge impact on the success of the unit.

Luckily, that didn't end up happening. Parker Romo has played well, making 11-12 field goals and 7-8 extra points over the last four games. and Jake McQuaide has done well keeping up with the standard the All Pro DePaola has set.

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On Monday, head coach Kevin O'Connell told the media that DePaola and Reichard would have their practice window opening. They made the change on Tuesday by releasing McQuaide from the active roster and running back Myles Gaskin from the practice squad.

Moving on from McQuaide, who was brought in here as a mercenary to hold down the fort while DePaola was healing and he did a great job of doing so. 

The other element that is interesting is the Vikings moving on from Gaskin. It says they are comfortable having the running backs on their roster they do and it hasn't been a great one either. Aaron Jones has fumbled four times in the last three weeks and the coaching staff doesn't seem to trust Ty Chandler. 

There could be another roster move coming with an open practice squad spot, but for now, the Vikings are set.