Breaking down the Minnesota Vikings 53-man roster for the 2018 season

(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 31: Latavius Murray #25 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Chicago Bears on December 31, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 31: Latavius Murray #25 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Chicago Bears on December 31, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

Running backs (5)

Released: Mack Brown, Kobe McCrary, Luke McNitt

Entering training camp, Brown was considered the favorite to act as the third running back on the roster behind Dalvin Cook and Latavius Murray. However, that’s not the way it all shook out for this unit.

Boone proved he is a capable back in many phases of the game, showing off his skills on the ground and through the air. Meanwhile, Thomas was able to overcome an injury to land on the main roster while reminding people of Jerick McKinnon during his time with the Minnesota Vikings.

C.J. Ham was a lock to be the only fullback on the roster despite Kobe McCrary and Luke McNitt getting opportunities in practice and preseason. Ham showcased his pass catching skills during the preseason as well as continued to show why he’s a solid pass blocker.

Sadly, Brown didn’t do enough to impress the coaches and staff of the team to earn a spot. Even with the team taking an extra running back, the two youngsters took their opportunity…and literally ran with it.

Schedule