Vikings waive cornerback Akayleb Evans

Evans was drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL draft.

Dec 31, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Akayleb Evans (21) and Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed (11) in action during the game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images / Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Vikings made a significant roster cut on Saturday morning, with NFL.com's Ian Rapaport reporting they have waived cornerback Akayleb Evans.

Evans has found himself falling down the depth chart behind the likes of Stephon Gilmore, Shaq Griffin and Byron Murphy Jr. this season, and has predominantly played special teams for the Vikings.

The decision to waive him could be a signal rookie linebacker Gabe Murphy, whose 21-day practice window was opened on Nov. 6, could be nearing his return, though he has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears.

Tight end Nick Muse, however, was activated from injured reserve on Saturday and will be active on Sunday. The Vikings also activated tight end Jake McQuaide to the active roster for Sunday's game in Chicago.

The #Vikings have announced the following roster moves

- Activated TE Nick Muse from IR. Muse will enter tomorrow's game without an injury designation.

- Elevated TE Jake McQuaide to the active roster for tomorrow's game

- Downgraded OLB Gabe Murphy to out

- Waived CB Akayleb… pic.twitter.com/qD6NvCey3o

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 23, 2024

It's a possibility too that Evans could still return to Minnesota if he clears waivers and the Vikings bring him back to the practice squad.

Evans was drafted by the Vikings with the 118th pick in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL draft.

If he doesn't return to the Vikings after clearing waivers, it means the only survivors from Kwesi Adofo-Mensah's first draft are Ed Ingram (currently benched), Brian Asamoah (a backup), Ty Chandler (third-string RB), Jalen Nailor (backup WR) and backup tight end Muse.