After head coach Kevin O’Connell made the announcement on Monday afternoon, the Minnesota Vikings officially activated inside linebacker Ivan Pace Jr.’s practice window, marking a significant step in his return to action. This move has generated considerable excitement among fans and the coaching staff alike, as Pace’s potential return could be a major boost for the defense as the Vikings push toward the playoffs.

Ivan Pace Jr.’s Return to Practice

In his statement on Monday, O’Connell expressed enthusiasm about Pace’s impending return to the field:

“We will open up Ivan’s window to begin practicing. Very excited about that. We’ll see how he progresses, and coming off of a hamstring injury, you just, you never quite know. So I don’t want to be absolute, but the plan is, as of right now, to open his window, get him some work, and then hopefully have him available.”

For the Vikings, having Pace back would be a game-changer, especially when it comes to generating pressure on the quarterback. Over the last few weeks, the Vikings’ defense has struggled to apply consistent pressure, and Pace’s dynamic blitzing ability has been sorely missed. His return would give defensive coordinator Brian Flores more flexibility and firepower, allowing the defense to get back to its aggressive style that was so effective earlier in the season.

Pace, known for his high motor and versatility, could help reinvigorate a defensive front that’s been missing key elements in his absence. As the Vikings fight to maintain their playoff position, the addition of Pace could make all the difference in critical matchups down the stretch.

Vikings Add to Practice Squad After Injury Loss

In addition to activating Pace, the Vikings also made a move to bolster their depth after losing edge rusher Andre Carter II to injury. To fill the void, the Vikings signed cornerback Ambry Thomas to the practice squad. This move adds much-needed depth to the secondary, especially with the recent injury concerns.

Thomas, who was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, spent all three of his seasons with the team. During his career, Thomas has appeared in 42 games, starting in 11 of them. He’s recorded two interceptions, one fumble recovery, 12 passes defended, 61 tackles, and 1.0 tackles for loss. While Thomas has shown flashes of potential in his career, he’s struggled with consistency at times.

One key aspect to monitor, however, is Thomas’s recent waiver experience. He was claimed off waivers by the Indianapolis Colts but failed his physical with them, which left him a free agent. There’s always a level of uncertainty surrounding players who fail physicals, and there’s a possibility that Thomas could face a similar challenge with the Vikings. If he passes the physical, though, he could provide valuable depth, especially given the Vikings’ ongoing struggles in their secondary.

As the Vikings push for a playoff spot, these moves—bringing Ivan Pace Jr. back to the defense and adding Ambry Thomas to the practice squad—are vital to ensuring the team has all the pieces it needs to make a deep postseason run. With crucial matchups ahead, Minnesota will need all hands on deck, and these roster adjustments could make a significant impact as the season enters its final stretch.