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Dalton Risner could be heading back to Vikings bench

Against the 49ers in Week 7, offensive guard Dalton Risner got his first opportunity to start for the Vikings since signing with them earlier this season.

Risner started at left guard in place of an injured Ezra Cleveland, and in his first start since the 2022 campaign, the former member of the Denver Broncos held his own as both a pass blocker and a run blocker.

His time in Minnesota's starting lineup might be coming to an end this weekend, however, as Cleveland has taken part in both of the team's practices this week.

Now, Cleveland was only a limited participant on Wednesday and Thursday, but the chances seem good that he will be able to play against the Packers on Sunday.

Despite Risner not making any glaring mistakes against San Francisco, the Vikings would likely send him back to the bench if Cleveland is healthy enough to play in Green Bay.

During his time on the field this season, Cleveland has performed well enough to earn the ninth-best offensive grade from PFF among qualifying NFL guards. But even if he can't return this weekend, Minnesota at least now has proof that Risner can be trusted as a replacement if needed.