William Kwenkeu

Here is how the Vikings finalized their initial 53-man roster Tuesday:

Released:

• CB Nate Hairston
• QB Sean Mannion (story)
• CB Parry Nickerson

Waived:

• S Mike Brown
• WR Dan Chisena
• TE Zach Davidson
• G Wyatt Davis
• S Myles Dorn
• G Kyle Hinton
• WR Trishton Jackson
• RB Bryant Kobeck
• LB William Kwenkeu
• LB Blake Lynch
• LB Zach McCloud
• QB Kellen Mond (story)
• TE Nick Muse
• LB Janarius Robinson
• DL T.J. Smith
• C Josh Sokol
• DL Jalen Twyman
• DL Armon Watts

Waived/injured:

• DL Jullian Taylor

Beyond the previously covered quarterback situation, the Watts departure is Minnesota’s most notable cut. The 2019 sixth-round pick started nine games last season, moving into the lineup after Michael Pierce‘s injury. The Vikings cut Pierce this offseason, though Watts did not profile as a pure nose tackle. He was also drafted to play in a different scheme.

Minnesota hired a new DC this offseason (Ed Donatell), and the team acquired former Texans second-round defensive tackle pick Ross Blacklock on Tuesday. The Vikes had also added veteran Jonathan Bullard this offseason. These moves appear to have affected Watts’ status, as does the Vikings keeping only six D-linemen. They retained 10 after 2021’s cutdown day. Some of the changes can be attributed to classification, with edge defenders classified as outside linebackers in 3-4 sets. Watts also carried a $2.5MM cap charge, allowing Minnesota to save some decent money.

The Davis cut represents a quick bailout on a 2021 third-round pick. One of two guard Davises the Vikes shipped out Tuesday (along with Jesse, whom they traded to the Steelers), Wyatt — an Ohio State alum — played in six games last season and did not log an offensive snap. In addition to drafting Ed Ingram in the second round this year, the Vikings signed veteran interior linemen Chris Reed and Austin Schlottmann.