Four former Minnesota football players–linebacker Nate Triplett, cornerback Marcus Sherels, wide receiver Logan Payne and kicker Rhys Lloyd–were among 20 players cut by the Vikings today in order to reduce the roster to the NFL-maximum 53 spots before the season starts Thursday night.
Triplett was taken in the fifth round of April’s NFL draft in April, and was intended to be used on special teams. He had six tackles in the preseason.
Sherels, a teammate of Triplett’s at Minnesota, had an interception against the Seattle Seahawks on August 28 as well nine tackles and three punt returns for 15 yards in the preseason. Judd Zulgad of the Star Tribune said Sherels is likely to make the Vikings’ practice squad roster, which will be announced Sunday.
Payne led the Vikings in the receptions in the preseason with ten despite missing the last game against the Denver Broncos with a rib injury. He is also a candidate for the practice squad.
Lloyd was placed on waivers earlier in the day, and could still be claimed by the team. The New York Giants and Carolina Panthers are thought to be interested in the kickoff specialist. His $200,000 signing bonus was guaranteed.
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