Vikings Bench Key Starter Ahead of Commanders Showdown

Key roster decisions highlight the latest game-day moves as the Vikings and Commanders finalize their inactive lists ahead of kickoff.

With kickoff fast approaching at U.S. Bank Stadium, the Minnesota Vikings and Washington Commanders have released their inactive lists for today’s matchup. Let’s break down who’s suiting up-and who’s not-as both teams look to gain ground in the playoff race.


Washington Commanders Inactives:

  • OT George Fant
  • DE Drake Jackson
  • QB Josh Johnson (emergency QB)
  • DE Jalyn Holmes
  • LB Ale Kaho
  • OT Trent Scott

The Commanders will be missing some depth along both lines, with George Fant and Trent Scott inactive on the offensive side and Drake Jackson and Jalyn Holmes out on the defensive front. That’s a notable hit to their rotational pass rush, especially with Holmes missing out on a potential revenge game against his former team.

The good news for Washington? Linebacker Bobby Wagner and wide receiver Noah Brown, both of whom were listed as questionable heading into the weekend, are active and ready to go.

Wagner’s presence in the middle of the defense is a big stabilizer, especially against a Vikings offense that likes to test the second level. And Noah Brown gives the Commanders an added vertical threat, something they’ll need if they want to stretch the field.


Minnesota Vikings Inactives:

  • S Theo Jackson
  • OL Jon Huber
  • DL Levi Drake Rodriguez
  • OT Walter Rouse
  • DL Elijah Williams
  • QB John Wolford (emergency QB)
  • TE Ben Yurosek

The Vikings will also be without some depth, particularly in the trenches. Walter Rouse and Jon Huber sitting out means the offensive line will be counting on its starters to carry the load.

But there’s a silver lining: both Christian Darrisaw and Donovan Jackson-who were listed as questionable-are active and expected to start. That’s a huge boost for Minnesota, especially with Darrisaw anchoring the blind side.

Minnesota has also made a couple of roster moves ahead of the game, elevating defensive lineman Taki Taimani and cornerback Dwight McGlothern to the active roster. Taimani brings some size and power to the interior, while McGlothern adds depth to a secondary that could be tested by Washington’s passing game.

John Wolford is active as the emergency quarterback, giving the Vikings insurance at the position. It’s a subtle but important move, especially in a league where QB depth can become crucial in a heartbeat.


Both teams are relatively healthy where it counts, with key starters available and ready to roll. The Commanders will look to lean on a defense led by Bobby Wagner to slow down the Vikings’ attack, while Minnesota will count on its bolstered offensive line to keep things steady up front.

With the inactives set and the rosters finalized, all eyes now turn to the field. Kickoff is just around the corner, and this one has all the makings of a competitive afternoon in Minneapolis.