In the NFL, players often find themselves in search of a long-term home, akin to musical chairs. While some athletes lock in with one team for years, others bounce between franchises, creating an odd sight for fans who have grown accustomed to their favorite players donning familiar colors. Such is the case for fans of the Minnesota Vikings, who might feel a twinge of nostalgia seeing former players decked out in new uniforms.
Recently, the Washington Commanders added another ex-Viking to their ranks. Wide receiver K.J.
Osborn, who was claimed off waivers not too long ago, will now be joined by kicker Greg Joseph in the nation’s capital. The Commanders announced that they’ve signed Joseph to their practice squad.
Joseph, fresh off a stint with the New York Giants, had been placed on IR due to an oblique injury before being waived in November. His tenure with the Vikings saw him nail 83 out of 101 field goal attempts and convert 112 of 124 extra points, racking up a total of 361 points over three seasons.
At 30, Joseph waits in the wings, looking for an opening to make the active roster. That window could open depending on the status of current Washington kicker Zane Gonzalez, who’s nursing a foot injury. Though Gonzalez participated fully in practice sessions on Thursday and Friday, indicating he might be set for Sunday’s clash against the Saints, Joseph remains poised to step up if needed.
The Commanders are navigating Week 15 with postseason aspirations firmly in their sights. Currently holding the third and final NFC Wild Card spot with an 8-5 record, Washington has a challenging slate ahead.
Their season winds down with pivotal matchups against the New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons, and Dallas Cowboys, games that could define their playoff destiny. Joseph’s opportunity, much like the Commanders’ playoff hopes, might just be a heartbeat away.