The Minnesota Vikings are not in a great place heading into Week 16. They have already been ruled out of making the playoffs and are likely to finish in last place in the highly competitive NFC North division this season.
However, that doesn't mean that Sunday's game against the New York Giants isn't important to get the Vikings on the same page. Although their opponents only have two wins this season, they are in a similar situation where they are hoping to see continued development from their young quarterback.
At this time of the season, injuries can significantly impact a team's success. Sadly, Minnesota had to make some roster adjustments ahead of their game in New Jersey in the hope of being able to see progress and end the year on a high note.
The Minnesota Vikings made roster adjustments ahead of their Week 16 game against the New York Giants.
On Saturday, the official X account of the Minnesota Vikings shared a post that involved four players, two of whom will be suiting up for the game on Sunday and two who have been downgraded to out for the contest.
The #Vikings have signed CB Dwight McGlothern Jr. to the active roster and elevated LB Sione Takitaki to the active roster for tomorrow's game.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 20, 2025
TE Gavin Bartholomew and RB Ty Chandler have been downgraded to out. pic.twitter.com/kq4KTeTgxS
The most interesting of the transactions is the signing of cornerback Dwight McGlothern to the active roster. The six-foot-two defender is 23 years old and will help to add some depth and talent to a unit that has been depleted over the season.
Linebacker Sione Takitaki was elevated to the 53-man roster for this game after spots opened up because of injuries to other players.
Those roster spots could have gone to tight end Gavin Bartholomew or running back Ty Chandler, but they aren't quite ready to return from injured reserve yet, despite being in their 21-day window to return to practice.
No matter what happens in New Jersey in Week 16, the Minnesota Vikings need to work on their continuity and teamwork, as well as see progress from their developing players. Getting more regular-season action for McGlothern and Takitaki is smart since both are still relatively unknown talents and could turn into contributors in the future.
On the other hand, there is still plenty of time for Chandler and Bartholomew to be activated. With games remaining against the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers to close out the season, the Minnesota Vikings could use as much talent as possible if they hope to beat their division opponents.