In a move that flew under the radar but could prove to be a masterstroke, the Minnesota Vikings have bolstered their running back room by signing Corey Kiner to their practice squad. Fresh off a surprising Week 3 loss, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah didn’t hesitate to add the former San Francisco 49ers running back, who brings a bruising, productive style to an already dynamic backfield. This could be the spark the Vikings need to keep their ground game among the NFL’s elite.
A Stealth Signing with Big Potential
While the headlines were dominated by Minnesota’s early-season stumbles, the addition of Kiner quietly strengthens a roster already finding success on the ground. The Vikings, who rank fifth leaguewide in rushing DVOA entering Week 4—their best mark since 2021—are doubling down on their commitment to a punishing run game. Kiner, a 5’9”, 210-pound powerhouse, joins a backfield led by former 49er Jordan Mason and complemented by the injured Aaron Jones, who’s currently sidelined with a hamstring issue.
CBS Sports reported on the transaction: “Kiner was signed to the Vikings’ practice squad Monday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.” Having reached an injury settlement with the 49ers in late August due to an ankle issue, Kiner is now fully healthy and ready to provide depth to a Vikings squad navigating early-season injuries.
A former teammate of Vikings linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. at the University of Cincinnati, Kiner was a standout in college, particularly in his final two seasons. In 2024, he racked up an impressive 1,153 rushing yards and five touchdowns as a senior, showcasing his ability to churn out tough yards. While his 4.57-second 40-yard dash won’t dazzle scouts, his compact frame and relentless running style draw comparisons to former Viking Alexander Mattison in his prime.
Kiner’s game is built on consistency and physicality. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein described him as a “compact runner who is light on explosiveness but heavy on production and consistency.” Zierlein noted that Kiner rarely goes down on first contact, often “slinking around solid contact or pinballing off of it for additional yardage.” His downhill, no-nonsense approach makes him a perfect fit for Minnesota’s zone-based rushing attack under head coach Kevin O’Connell.
However, Kiner’s skill set isn’t without flaws. His lack of elite speed and limited experience in the passing game—both as a receiver and in pass protection—mean he’s not a three-down back. NFL Draft Buzz’s Andrew Moore highlighted his “lunchpail mentality” and ability to thrive in traffic, but noted that his route-running and protection technique need significant refinement. Still, Kiner’s natural hands and coachable attitude suggest he could develop into a more versatile player with time.
The Vikings’ RB Depth Chart: A Crowded Room
Kiner’s arrival adds another layer to Minnesota’s already robust running back stable. Here’s how the pecking order looks:
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Jordan Mason: The current lead back, thriving as a former 49er in Minnesota’s system.
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Aaron Jones (IR): The veteran starter, sidelined with a hamstring injury.
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Zavier Scott: A practice squad option who mirrors Kiner’s depth role.
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Cam Akers (Practice Squad): Recently signed and already promoted to the gameday roster for Week 3’s win over Cincinnati.
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Xazavian Valladay (Practice Squad): Another depth piece for the purple.
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Corey Kiner (Practice Squad): The newest addition, one injury away from a shot at the active roster.
The Vikings’ decision to carry six running backs is unusual for O’Connell’s tenure, signaling both caution due to injuries and confidence in their depth. Just last week, Cam Akers was elevated from the practice squad to contribute immediately, hinting at the potential for Kiner to follow a similar path if needed.
While Kiner’s signing may not generate the buzz of a blockbuster trade, it’s a savvy move for a team battered by injuries early in 2025. With Aaron Jones on injured reserve and the physical toll of an NFL season looming, Kiner represents a low-risk, high-upside addition. His college production—over 1,100 yards in a single season—suggests he can handle a heavy workload if called upon. In a “normal” draft year, Kiner might have been a late-round pick, but the loaded 2025 running back class saw him go undrafted, ranked No. 281 on the Consensus Big Board.
For now, Kiner’s role is likely limited to the practice squad, serving as insurance behind Mason and the recovering Jones. However, the Vikings’ history of elevating practice squad players—Zavier Scott and Cam Akers being recent examples—means Kiner could see the field if injuries persist. A strong showing in practice could also earn him a legitimate shot at the 53-man roster in 2026.
Scouts praise Kiner’s ability to maximize every carry, even if he lacks the burst to break away from defenders. NFL Draft Buzz’s Andrew Moore emphasized his fit in a committee backfield: “Kiner has the makings of a reliable early-down runner… His vision and decisive cutting make him a natural fit in zone-based rushing attacks.” His weaknesses, including ball security and a lack of special teams experience, may limit his immediate impact, but his gritty style aligns perfectly with Minnesota’s hard-nosed identity.
The Vikings’ signing of Corey Kiner may not dominate SportsCenter, but it’s a classic Kwesi Adofo-Mensah move: low-profile, high-potential, and perfectly timed. As Minnesota looks to rebound from a shocking Week 3 loss and maintain their top-five rushing attack, Kiner’s addition could prove to be a steal. Whether he’s pounding out yards in practice or waiting for his moment on Sundays, this former 49er is a name to watch in purple.