The Minnesota Vikings made a significant move in preparation for their Week 17 matchup against the Green Bay Packers, waiving former first-round pick Jamin Davis to make room for the return of starting inside linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. Pace had been sidelined for four weeks due to a hamstring injury but was activated just in time for this crucial game. The announcement came on Saturday, December 28, as Pace prepared to rejoin the lineup after missing the Vikings’ last few games.

Pace’s return comes at a critical time for the Vikings, as they aim to make a strong playoff push. The linebacker initially suffered the hamstring injury in the first half of a Week 12 victory over the Chicago Bears. To fill the gap during his absence, the Vikings signed Davis off the Packers’ practice squad on November 26. Despite his potential, Davis played a limited role, participating in only 21 defensive snaps across four games. He did, however, manage to record a sack and a tackle for loss in a standout performance during a Week 14 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.

Davis was originally drafted 19th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders, where he spent over three seasons. Known for his impressive combination of size and speed, Davis was once considered one of the best pound-for-pound athletes of that draft class. However, under first-year head coach Dan Quinn, Davis did not fit into the Commanders’ plans at inside linebacker, leading to his release in October. With the Vikings, he had an opportunity to show his skills but ultimately was waived after limited success.

Now, with Pace returning from his injury, the Vikings are hoping to strengthen their defense as they head into the postseason. Pace will take the majority of the snaps at inside linebacker alongside Blake Cashman, while veteran Kamryn Grugier-Hill returns to a backup role. The team also has the option of re-signing Davis to their practice squad if he clears waivers by Monday, December 30, though it remains to be seen whether he will remain part of the team’s plans moving forward.

The Vikings’ defense has been plagued by injuries throughout the season, but Pace’s return signifies that they are nearing full strength as they approach the postseason. This is a welcome development for Minnesota, especially considering their physical style of play, which has often led to injuries. In addition to Pace, defensive lineman Jalen Redmond, who missed Week 16 against the Seattle Seahawks due to a concussion, has returned to full practice participation and is expected to be available for the Packers game.

The Vikings have also welcomed back starting cornerback Stephon Gilmore, who returned in Week 16 after missing two games due to a hamstring injury. Although Gilmore was rested in practice this week, he entered Sunday’s game without any injury designation. However, backup cornerback Fabian Moreau remains out for a second consecutive week due to a hip injury, adding another challenge for Minnesota’s secondary.

As the Vikings gear up for a pivotal game against Green Bay, their injury report reflects the team’s progress toward full strength. The Vikings will need all hands on deck as they aim to secure the top seed in the NFC and potentially earn a first-round bye. Currently sitting at 13-2, the Vikings are coming off an impressive eight-game winning streak. On the other hand, Green Bay, with an 11-4 record, has won five of its last six games, setting up a thrilling matchup between two of the NFC’s most formidable teams.

Despite both teams already clinching playoff spots, the Vikings still have a great deal to play for. They can secure the top seed in the NFC with a perfect finish to the regular season, which would give them a significant advantage heading into the postseason. Sunday’s game will be a crucial one, as the Vikings are 1.5-point favorites over the Packers, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. The outcome of this game will not only impact the playoff standings but could also shape the trajectory of both teams as they head into the most important stretch of the season.