The Minnesota Vikings are getting some backfield reinforcements at a critical point in the season. On Wednesday, the team designated running back Ty Chandler to return from injured reserve, officially opening his 21-day practice window. That means Chandler can now participate in team activities as the Vikings evaluate whether he’s ready to be activated to the 53-man roster.
Chandler, 27, has been a depth piece with upside since the Vikings took him in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of North Carolina. Now in the final year of his rookie deal-a four-year, $4 million contract-he’s looking to make an impact down the stretch for a team still fighting for position in a crowded NFC playoff picture.
Last season, Chandler played in all 17 games and saw a modest workload behind the Vikings’ lead backs. He logged 56 carries for 182 yards, averaging 3.3 yards per attempt, and added six catches for 42 yards out of the backfield. While those numbers don’t jump off the page, Chandler has shown flashes of burst and versatility that make him an intriguing option, especially in a rotation.
The timing of his return could be significant. The Vikings have been navigating injuries and inconsistency in the run game, and Chandler’s return gives them another look at a player who knows the system and can contribute on both offense and special teams. If he can stay healthy and show some juice in practice, there’s a real shot he could carve out a role down the stretch.
In a corresponding move, the Vikings also added wide receiver Joaquin Davis to the practice squad. Davis, a developmental prospect, gives Minnesota another body in the receiver room as they continue to manage depth and evaluate talent heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
With Chandler now back on the practice field and Davis joining the fold, the Vikings are quietly making moves that could pay dividends in the weeks to come.