Once again, the Vikings have to deal with the absence of a key player due to COVID-19 protocol.
Minnesota placed DT Dalvin Tomlinson on the Reserve/COVID-19 list, the team announced on Tuesday. Tomlinson, the Vikings’ starting three-technique defensive tackle, has started all 10 games in 2021.
For Minnesota, this is a significant loss. With Michael Pierce still not healthy, the Vikings will have to hope Armon Watts, Sheldon Richardson, James Lynch and others step up in the absence of key players on the interior.
Tomlinson’s presence in the pass rush shouldn’t be too missed, but without both him and Pierce, the Vikings defense should have a harder time stopping the run. Watts already seemed capable of moving into the starting lineup full time, at least.
Minnesota wasn’t done there.
The Vikings activated G Dakota Dozier from the Practice Squad Reserve/COVID-19. Also, Minnesota has released FB Garrett Groshek and C Spencer Pulley from the practice squad.
The Vikings also protected DT T.Y. McGill, DE Kenny Willekes and safety Myles Dorn on the practice squad this week.
In addition to Tomlinson, the Vikings have two players from either the active roster or practice squad on COVID-19/Reserve.
