On Sunday at US Bank Stadium, Minnesota Vikings players new and veteran will debut for their inaugural matchup against Green Bay Packers – 16 of whom hope to make an impression when taking to the field for the first time this season.
16 Vikings Who Could Make Their Debut On Sunday
The team kept a low profile in free agency this year, with only six veterans among the newcomers. The remainder of the players expected to debut are rookies eager to prove themselves. Some will start, some will rotate in, while others may primarily contribute on special teams. With the game-day roster capped at 48, not all may be active on game day.
Below is a look at the 16 Vikings likely to see their first action along with expectations for each player.
Kyler Murray (QB)
All eyes will be on Kyler Murray as he steps into the quarterback role following last season’s turmoil. Signed at a bargain $1.3 million, Murray’s success depends on regaining his earlier career form and staying healthy. A strong debut could energize the fanbase, while a poor performance will only increase the pressure typical of the quarterback position.
Jauan Jennings (WR)
Jauan Jennings brings a powerful presence to the wide receiver group as the team’s WR3. Known for competing aggressively on contested catches and being a red zone threat, Jennings looks poised to contribute significantly to an offense that needs a boost near the end zone.
Max Bredeson (FB)
Following CJ Ham’s retirement, Max Bredeson was drafted to fill the fullback role. His involvement will be key to enhancing the run game and providing valuable blocking or receiving options in the passing attack. Sunday will provide the first glimpse of how he’ll fit into Kevin O’Connell’s offensive scheme.
Ryan Van Demark (OT)
With valuable experience including 43 games played, Ryan Van Demark will likely serve primarily on special teams unless injuries arise among the starting tackles. He is expected to be ready as a reliable backup if called upon.
Caleb Tiernan (OT)
Rookie Caleb Tiernan, a third-round pick, is expected to contribute on special teams and provide depth on the offensive line. His offensive playing time would likely indicate injury troubles among starters, which the team hopes to avoid this season.
Nick Samac (C)
Nick Samac has joined the team to back up center Blake Brandel after Michael Jurgens was placed on injured reserve and a rookie was released. Samac should be suited up and ready to step in if needed.
Trevor Keegan (G)
The backup guard spot will likely go to either Trevor Keegan or Joe Huber. Both players bring limited confidence as emergency depth but will suit up to support the offensive line as necessary.
Demond Claiborne (RB)
Demond Claiborne’s explosive speed offers the Vikings another weapon. He could split return duties and provide occasional touches on offense, particularly as a receiving option, adding a creative element to the offense despite limited snaps early in the season.
James Pierre (CB)
James Pierre is the defense’s marquee free agent addition, joining after a solid rotational role last season. Whether he will start or compete for more playing time remains to be seen, but Sunday’s game will provide the first insight into his role under defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
Caleb Banks (DT)
Injuries have slowed the development of first-round pick Caleb Banks, who isn’t expected to be an immediate starter. However, he should see playing time and opportunities to prove his impact on the Vikings’ defensive line.
Domonique Orange (NT)
Known as “Big Citrus,” Domonique Orange is a promising nose tackle expected to feature heavily in big defensive packages. At over 320 pounds, he could become a dominant force anchoring the interior defensive front.
Jake Golday (LB)
Second-round draft pick Jake Golday is anticipated to push for significant playing time from Week 1. While he may line up as an edge rusher, there is also speculation he could compete for an inside linebacker role amid an aging linebacker corps.
Chuck Demmings (CB)
Rookie Chuck Demmings has been a standout during the preseason, showing confidence and on-field production. Although still climbing the cornerback depth chart, he is eager to seize any opportunity to contribute this season.
Jakobe Thomas (S)
Third-round rookie Jakobe Thomas has had to manage a back issue, allowing an undrafted rookie to gain attention. With veteran Harrison Smith returning late, Thomas’s role remains uncertain, and he may see limited action early as he continues developing.
Jacob Thomas (S)
Undrafted rookie Jacob Thomas made an impressionful mark throughout training camp and preseason before suffering an ankle sprain late in preseason, yet made the 53-man roster nonetheless and must vie with veteran players for playing time.
Brett Thorson (P)
Rookie punter Brett Thorson emerged victorious during the NFL preseason competition between rookie punter Johnny Hekker and veteran Johnny Thorson, boasting powerful punts from Australian college football to American Football without prior American experience. Now facing this new challenge of NFL competition with powerful punts.