These Vikings Could Become Totally Unexpected Cut Casualties
Nearly every summer, the Minnesota Vikings have at least one roster cut that makes a fan think, “What? They cut that guy?” And there’s no reason to believe 2026 will be any different, especially with new general manager Nolan Teasley, who has allegiance to zero players on the current roster, in the saddle.
So, to get you thinking about stunning possible roster cuts, here’s the list for 2026 in alphabetical order.
Training Camp Could Put Familiar Names in Trouble
Gavin Bartholomew | TE
The Vikings used a 6th-Round pick on Bartholomew in a draft when they had so very few picks after the expensive Dallas Turner trade in 2024. Every pick had to make an impact to offset the lack of rookies joining the depth chart.
The result? Barothomew missed the entire 2025 season with a lower back injury. He didn’t play a single snap on offense or special teams as a rookie.
Fast forward to 2026, and the man has something to prove. He must show that he belongs on the depth chart, specifically that undrafted free agent Ben Yurosek didn’t steal his job. In theory, Minnesota could keep four tight ends on the 53-man roster, but if it retains the customary three, training camp is a battle between Bartholomew and Yurosek at TE3.
And Bartholomew could lose.
Tai Felton | WR
Felton’s roster spot with the team could hinge on the dynamics at training camp.
Drafted by the Vikings in the 3rd Round just over a year ago, the wide receiver’s presence in the offense largely vanished once the regular season began, and his minimal involvement in passing plays was perplexing. Such an outcome cannot be repeated in his second year.
With the addition of undrafted rookie Dillon Bell, the Vikings now have another young receiver to evaluate. Should Bell impress during camp, Minnesota may no longer consider Felton’s draft status a guarantee for a roster spot.
Our Brevan Bane noted on Felton last month, “Now that the Vikings have signed WR Jauan Jennings to be WR3 behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, things are looking a bit murky for Tai Felton. Maybe, he’s still in the long-term plans since Jennings is on a one year deal.”
“However, it’s not a great look for those that have high hopes for Felton to be a major piece of the Vikings’ offense. Tai Felton is a speedster, posing a real threat to take the top off of defenses whenever he’s on the field. At least, he was that in college.”
Thankfully for Felton, if the Vikings cut him, another team would surely give him a look. Speed kills.
“Felton couldn’t even manage to get the WR4 role coming out of training camp in his rookie year, as the Vikings would re-acquire WR Adam Thielen via trade with the Panthers, who would split reps with Jalen Nailor,” Bane added.
“Felton only played 40 total snaps at receiver in 2025 for the Vikings, with 293 coming on special teams. The Vikings likely do value Felton’s special teams ability, and to be fair, that is how Adam Thielen got his start in Minnesota.”
Ivan Pace Jr. | LB
Pace enters training camp with substantially less job security than previous Julys.
The Vikings benched him for Eric Wilson in 2025, a move that led to Wilson playing at a Pro Bowl level. Although Minnesota later re-signed Pace, his contract offers little protection; releasing him would incur no dead-cap hit.
The situation could become even more precarious with rookie Jake Golday. If Golday reveals he’s ready for regular season play, Pace might find himself off the roster before Week 1.
Ultimately, Pace’s fate hinges on his tackling ability. He was an efficient tackler in his first two seasons, but that aspect of his game disappeared in 2025. He must prove that his previous form is still intact.
Myles Price | WR
Refer to the WR situation above. Suppose the Vikings keep Felton and Bell. That would spell trouble for Price, who’s “only” specialty at the moment is returning kicks and punts. Minnesota just drafted running back Demond Claiborne, and believe it or not, he has the speed to perform both jobs if called upon.
It’s not difficult to replace a return man, and if the Vikings value a roster spot for another wide receiver, Price’s limited utility on offense could send him to the practice squad or outright free agency.
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