The Vikings put cornerback Mackensie Alexander, who had arthroscopic knee this week, on injured reserve Friday, a day before their playoff game against San Francisco.
Cornerback Nate Meadors, a rookie from UCLA, was activated off the practice squad to take his spot.
Safety Jayron Kearse (toe/knee) was downgraded to out for the game.
Ben Goessling is in his sixth year covering the Vikings, having joined the Star Tribune in 2017 after four seasons at ESPN and one at the Pioneer Press. He is an Apple Valley High School and University of Minnesota graduate. Follow him at @GoesslingStrib.
Mark Craig has covered the NFL for 23 years, and the Vikings since 2003 for the Star Tribune. He is one of 48 Pro Football Hall of Fame selectors. Follow him at @markcraignfl.
Andrew Krammer joined the Star Tribune in July 2016 after three years covering the Vikings for 1500 ESPN. He is a 2013 graduate of the University of Minnesota. Follow him at @Andrew_Krammer.
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