Minnesota made a familiar roster call-up for its game against Pittsburgh.
The Vikings elevated DE Kenny Willekes to the active roster for the Thursday game. Minnesota also elevated LB Tuf Borland.
Willekes has four QB hits in just three games this year. He showed promise in the preseason, which landed him a spot on the practice squad. With the Vikings lacking depth on the defensive line — Danielle Hunter is out for the year and Everson Griffen is on NFI list — Willekes has made the most of his new role.
The Vikings currently have LB Blake Lynch tabbed as questionable for the Steelers matchup. He had a big game last week in the absence of linebackers Eric Kendricks and Anthony Barr. Lynch had two sacks and a forced fumble. But the Vikings can’t count on him for this week, because he’s dealing with a hip injury.
At 5-7, Minnesota need this game if the team wants to keep most of its playoff hopes alive. Maybe Willekes and Borland can make an impact.
