Vikings Part Ways With Four Players, Including Devin Neal

The Minnesota Vikings made several roster moves Wednesday, making changes to both their practice squad and 53-man roster as they prepare for Sunday's matchup with the New Orleans Saints.

Minnesota released cornerback Natrone Brooks, punter Johnny Hekker and running back Devin Neal from its practice squad while also waiving cornerback Tyreek Chappell from injured reserve.

The release of Neal stands out after the Vikings signed him just last week and are in need of running back depth.

Minnesota added Neal to the practice squad following a series of injuries at running back. Aaron Jones returned to action against the Miami Dolphins after dealing with a knee injury, while Jordan Mason remains on injured reserve. DeeJay Dallas has also been dealing with a toe injury, leaving the Vikings with limited depth at the position.

Neal joined Minnesota after spending the early part of the season with the Saints. The 23-year-old was selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Kansas and appeared in 10 games as a rookie, making three starts.

He recorded 206 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 57 carries while adding 17 receptions for 104 yards on 19 targets. Neal also forced 10 missed tackles and finished with 136 rushing yards after contact.

Despite that production, Neal's time with the Vikings ends before he even had an opportunity to appear in a game for the team.

His release also comes as Minnesota continues to evaluate its options at running back with several players dealing with injuries. The Vikings also signed former Saints running back Audric Estime last week, who will now have an opportunity ahead of him.

The 23-year-old was selected by Denver in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Notre Dame before joining the Saints, where he saw an increased role as injuries depleted the backfield.

His best performance came late in 2025 against Tennessee, when he rushed for a career-high 94 yards on 14 carries, averaging 6.7 yards per carry. He forced eight missed tackles and converted five runs into first downs while earning an 82.9 overall PFF grade and an 87.5 rushing grade.

Estime’s physical running style and relentless motor have defined him since entering the league, while he has also shown he can contribute as a receiver and blocker.

Hekker's release is another notable move for the Vikings, as it means Brett Thorson looks to be healthy enough from his hamstring injury to return in Week 5. The veteran punter started for Minnesota last week against the Miami Dolphins, but now duties appear to be turning back over to the rookie.

The Vikings are coming off a 15-10 win over Miami and now travel to New Orleans to face the 1-3 Saints. With Minnesota sitting at 4-0, the team will continue making adjustments to its roster as they navigate injuries and prepare for the second half of the season.

The moves leave Minnesota with fewer immediate questions at punter heading into the week while creating an opportunity for Estime to establish himself.