The Vikings downgraded T.J. Hockenson and Dalton Risner to out for Thursday’s game against the Rams, though Hockenson is expected to be activated from injured reserve on Friday in time for his season debut against the Colts on Nov. 3.
Hockenson has been practicing while recovering from ACL surgery on his right knee in January, while Risner is coming back from a back injury. The Vikings elevated defensive lineman Jalen Redmond and tight end Robert Tonyan from the practice squad for the game in Los Angeles. This is the team’s last elevation for Tonyan, the veteran reserve who would have to be signed to the active roster to play after Thursday night.
Vikings starting linebacker Blake Cashman (turf toe) and reserve cornerback Akayleb Evans (hip) have been ruled out. Both will miss a second straight game due to their injuries.
The Rams activated receiver Puka Nacua from injured reserve for the game for his first action since sustaining a knee injury in the season opener. Star receiver Cooper Kupp is also expected to play Thursday, returning from a Week 2 ankle injury.
Vikings’ inactives: Cashman (toe), Evans (hip), CB Dwight McGlothern, DT Levi Drake Rodriguez, OT Walter Rouse and RB Myles Gaskin
Rams’ inactives: LB Troy Reeder (hamstring), WR Jordan Whittington (shoulder), QB Stetson Bennett IV, CB Tre’Davious White, RB Cody Schrader and DE Desjuan Johnson
