EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings (13-4) on Saturday activated offensive lineman Blake Brandel from Injured Reserve ahead of hosting the New York Giants (9-7-1) in the Wild Card Round of the NFC Playoffs.
Minnesota waived reserve offensive lineman Greg Mancz, who had signed with Minnesota on Jan. 3, two days after the Vikings lost backup center Austin Schlottmann and right tackle Brian O'Neill to season-ending injuries at Green Bay.
Brandel has appeared in nine games this season and made three starts at left tackle in place of Christian Darrisaw from Weeks 12-14 before suffering an injury at Detroit.
View photos of the Vikings 53-man roster as of Jan. 14, 2023.
He was designated to return to practice this week.
The Vikings on Friday announced starting center Garrett Bradbury is a "full go" and expected to start Sunday. Bradbury last played in Week 13 against the Jets. He has started all 57 regular-season games and two playoff contests.
Chris Reed replaced Schlottmann at Green Bay and started in Chicago last week as Bradbury continued to recover.
Olisaemeka Udoh replaced O'Neill at Green Bay and started in Chicago last week. The Vikings could go with Udoh or Brandel at right tackle against the Giants.