The Minnesota Vikings have made a move to bolster their offensive line depth by signing tackle Marcellus Johnson to the practice squad. Johnson, a rookie offensive tackle out of the University of Missouri, has been known for his versatility and potential to develop into a reliable player in the NFL. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 305 pounds, Johnson brings both size and athleticism to the Vikings’ practice squad, where he will continue to hone his skills and potentially work his way into a more prominent role.
Johnson’s signing comes with the release of tackle Ricky Lee III, who had been with the Vikings on their practice squad. Lee, an undrafted free agent from North Carolina A&T, was signed earlier in the season but was let go to make room for Johnson. While Lee showed promise, the Vikings seem to be prioritizing Johnson’s upside and potential to contribute in the future.
The Vikings’ offensive line has been an area of focus throughout the season, with injuries and inconsistent play creating the need for added depth. By bringing in Johnson, the team is looking to reinforce their protection for quarterback Kirk Cousins and bolster their run-blocking schemes. As Johnson continues to learn the system and gain experience, he could become an asset for the Vikings as the season progresses.
For now, Johnson will focus on development while learning from the veteran offensive linemen on the roster. His addition to the practice squad is a sign that the Vikings are committed to building for the future while maintaining their competitive edge this season. As for Ricky Lee III, he will now be seeking his next opportunity to land on an NFL roster.