Five Key Battles for the Vikings in the Final Preseason Game
The Minnesota Vikings wrap up their preseason slate with a trip to Nashville to face the Tennessee Titans. While most of the 53-man roster is likely already shaping up, these five battles will determine which players punch their ticket for the regular season.
1) Running Back Battle
Ty Chandler vs. Zavier Scott
Behind the established veterans, Ty Chandler and Zavier Scott are in a close competition for one roster spot. Chandler, a 2022 fifth-round pick, showed promise earlier in his career, but the competition with Scott—who has spent time on NFL practice squads and has turned heads this preseason—will come down to who can best contribute on game night, especially in limited opportunities. The final preseason outing will be their last big chance to prove they deserve a place on the 53-man roster.
2) WR/Punt Returner Battle
Tai Felton, Silas Bolden, Lucky Jackson, Myles Price, Tim Jones, Jeshaun Jones, Thayer Thomas
Injuries and depth at wide receiver have left the Vikings examining internal options for both playmaking and return duties. The hope is to identify a reliable punt returner who can contribute on special teams and help the offense when called upon. So far, players like Silas Bolden and Myles Price have shown return capabilities, with other contenders jockeying for snaps and looks at receiver to maximize the depth chart. The Titans game offers one final chance for these candidates to impress and stake a claim.
3) Defensive Line Depth Competition
Levi Drake Rodriguez, Jalen Redmond, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Taki Taimani, Elijah Williams, Jonathan Harris, Travis Bell
The Vikings added interior talent this season, and the roster battle behind the veterans will hinge on who can bring both run-stopping ability and interior push. With several contenders competing for one or two spots, the final game in Tennessee is critical for players like Levi Drake Rodriguez, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, and Taki Taimani, among others, to show consistency and versatility. An ankle issue or a standout performance can tilt the decision for a coach tasked with trimming the roster.
4) Outside Linebacker Depth
Gabriel Murphy, Bo Richter, Tyler Batty
Outside linebacker depth is always a focal point, especially for a team looking to supplement edge production and special-teams impact. Gabriel Murphy has built momentum, while Bo Richter’s special-teams background and Tyler Batty’s undrafted pedigree keep the competition tight. The final preseason game could determine which of these players slides onto the 53-man roster or the practice squad, depending on how they contribute in coverage, rushing the passer, and on kick teams.
5) Final Defensive Back Spot
Tavierre Thomas, Ambry Thomas, Kahlef Hailassie
With 10 defensive backs typically in play, the Vikings are left deciding one final spot among three experienced options. Tavierre Thomas brings veteran special-teams value, Ambry Thomas offers starting-receiver-turned-corner experience, and Kahlef Hailassie has flashed as a coverage contributor with upside. The Titans contest will be the last audition for these players to show they belong on the final roster, especially in roles on defense and on special teams.
Outlook and value added
This game is less about the scoreboard and more about sharpening the depth chart. The Vikings will be watching how these fringe players respond under pressure, how well they handle special-teams duties, and which combinations give the coaching staff confidence heading into the regular season. A strong performance from any of these contenders could swing the balance in a tightly contested roster decision.
Summary
Minnesota’s preseason finale is the stage for five pivotal roster decisions: running back depth, receiver and punt return capability, defensive-line versatility, outside linebacker depth, and the final defensive back spot. Expect a competitive showing aimed at proving who can contribute immediately on game days and who might be stashed for development or kept on the practice squad.
Positive note
If the Vikings land on several standout performances, it could bode well for the effort to maximize special teams impact and create a flexible, depth-rich roster as they head into the regular season.