Vikings Place Key Contributors Ham and Batty on Injured Reserve as Roster Deadline Passes

Veteran Fullback C.J. Ham and Rookie Linebacker Tyler Batty Must Miss First Four Games; Jordan Addison Suspended Three Games

The Minnesota Vikings made significant roster moves on Tuesday as the NFL’s 53-player deadline passed, placing veteran fullback C.J. Ham and rookie outside linebacker Tyler Batty on Injured Reserve-Designated to Return. Both players will miss at least the first four games of the 2025 season but remain eligible to return later in the campaign.

Ham’s Absence Creates Offensive Void

The placement of C.J. Ham on injured reserve represents a substantial loss for Minnesota’s offensive and special teams units. The veteran fullback has been a cornerstone of the Vikings’ ground game since his elevation to the active roster in 2017, providing crucial blocking and leadership that helped Aaron Jonesachieve a career-high 1,138 rushing yards on 255 carries last season.

Ham’s reliability has been legendary throughout his eight-season career, missing just two regular-season games while establishing himself as one of the NFL’s premier fullbacks. His 2024 campaign included all 17 regular-season games with 262 offensive snaps and 282 special teams snaps, demonstrating his versatility and durability.

The Duluth, Minnesota native’s journey from undrafted tryout player in 2016 to team captain (2021-24) exemplifies the Vikings’ development philosophy. His leadership both on and off the field has made him invaluable beyond statistical contributions, serving as a mentor for younger players while maintaining elite performance standards.

Rookie Batty’s Early Setback

Tyler Batty’s placement on injured reserve represents an unfortunate start to his NFL career after joining Minnesota as an undrafted free agent from BYU this spring. The outside linebacker showed promise during training camp and earned a start in last week’s preseason finale against Tennessee before leaving the game early with the injury that now sidelines him.

Batty’s early departure from the Tennessee game raised concerns about his availability for the regular season opener. The injured reserve designation confirms those fears while providing a pathway for his return after the mandatory four-game absence.

For an undrafted rookie, missing the first four games presents significant challenges in establishing himself within the organization. However, the “Designated to Return” status indicates the Vikings remain committed to his development and see long-term potential in his abilities.

Strategic Use of IR-Designated to Return

The Vikings’ decision to use two of their eight available Injured Reserve-Designated to Return spots on Ham and Batty reflects the organization’s confidence in both players’ recovery timelines and future contributions. Teams can designate up to eight players for return during the regular season, with two additional spots available if they reach the playoffs.

This strategic roster management allows Minnesota to retain valuable players while creating immediate roster flexibility for the season opener. Both players can begin practicing after four weeks and return to game action as early as Week 5, pending medical clearance.

Additional Roster Moves Impact Depth

The Vikings also placed receiver Jordan Addison on the Reserve/Suspended list for the first three games of 2025, creating another significant absence in the offensive skill positions. Addison’s suspension, combined with Ham’s injury, forces Minnesota to adjust their offensive game planning for the season’s opening weeks.

Additionally, rookie tight end Gavin Bartholomew was moved from Active/Physically Unable to Perform to Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform, indicating his recovery timeline extends beyond the immediate future.

Implications for Season Opener

Ham’s absence particularly impacts Minnesota’s rushing attack and short-yardage situations where his blocking prowess has been crucial. The Vikings will need to identify alternative solutions for their ground game while maintaining the special teams excellence Ham has provided.

Batty’s unavailability affects linebacker depth and special teams coverage, areas where rookie contributions often prove valuable during the season’s early weeks. His absence creates opportunities for other young linebackers to establish themselves while he focuses on recovery.

Looking Ahead

The “Designated to Return” status for both players provides optimism for their eventual contributions to the 2025 campaign. Ham’s veteran leadership and proven production make his return a priority, while Batty’s development continues despite the early setback.

Minnesota’s medical and coaching staffs will monitor both players’ progress closely, with the goal of having them ready for practice by Week 5 and potential game action soon thereafter. Their eventual returns could provide significant boosts to a Vikings team navigating early-season challenges.

As the regular season approaches, these roster moves demonstrate the Vikings’ commitment to both immediate competitiveness and long-term player development, balancing present needs with future potential.

Injury Reserve Details:

• C.J. Ham: Fullback, IR-Designated to Return (minimum 4 games)
• Tyler Batty: Outside Linebacker, IR-Designated to Return (minimum 4 games)
• Jordan Addison: Wide Receiver, Reserve/Suspended (3 games)
• Gavin Bartholomew: Tight End, Reserve/PUP

Vikings Related News:

• Vikings Trade Cornerback Mekhi Blackmon to Colts for 2026 Sixth-Round Pick
• NFL Network Announces Star-Studded Broadcast Team for Historic Vikings-Steelers Dublin Showdown
• Vikings Make Strategic Roster Cuts as Tuesday Deadline Approaches

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