Vikings sign rookie offensive lineman Beavers from practice squad
The Vikings have signed rookie guard Willie Beavers to the active roster from the practice squad, the team announced Tuesday.
Beavers was the team's fourth-round draft pick this year. The 6-foot-5, 322-pound Beavers started 40 straight games at Western Michigan, earning first-team All-MAC honors as a senior while playing left tackle. The Vikings had Beavers transition from tackle to guard this offseason but waived him before the season. Beavers was the highest 2016 NFL Draft pick to not make an active roster.
Beavers' activation could help the offensive line, should guard Alex Boone be unable to play Monday vs. the New York Giants. Boone sustained a hip injury in the second quarter of the team's win this past Sunday and did not return. Jeremiah Sirles replaced Boone.
Minnesota is also without starting left tackle Matt Kalil, who is on injured reserve with a hip injury. Second-year lineman T.J. Clemmings started for Kalil on Sunday.
The team also announced the signing of Minnesota native and former Gophers wide receiver Isaac Fruechte as well as tackle Sean Hickey to the practice squad. Minnesota released cornerback Julian Wilson from the practice squad.
