Vikings Elevate Kyle Van Noy, Dillon Bell for Bears Clash

As the Minnesota Vikings prepare for a pivotal NFC North showdown against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on Sunday, September 20, 2026, the team has made a pair of roster moves aimed at bolstering depth on both sides of the ball. According to an announcement from the team on Saturday, outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy and wide receiver Dillon Bell have been elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for Week 3. The moves, reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, come as the Vikings look to build momentum in a division that remains wide open early in the season.

Van Noy's Role Expands in Brian Flores' Defense

Van Noy's elevation comes as little surprise after the veteran linebacker logged 25 defensive snaps in last week's game. At 35 years old, Van Noy is in the twilight of a distinguished career that includes two Super Bowl rings with the New England Patriots, but his experience and versatility remain valuable assets in defensive coordinator Brian Flores' complex scheme. As he continues to re-acclimate to Flores' system, Van Noy is expected to serve as a key rotational piece, providing leadership and situational pass-rush ability. Insights gathered by Vulius Sports suggest that Van Noy could be elevated again next week before eventually being signed to the 53-man roster permanently, given his steady integration into the defense.

Bell Adds Receiver Depth with Jennings Out

With wide receiver Jauan Jennings unavailable due to a family issue, the Vikings turned to Dillon Bell to fill the void. Bell, an undrafted rookie out of Georgia, flashed exciting potential during the preseason and was considered a long shot to make the initial 53-man roster. Now, he gets an opportunity to contribute on game day. While Bell may not see extensive snaps on offense, his elevation provides insurance behind starters Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Either Tai Felton or Myles Price will step in as the WR3 against Chicago, but both played just three offensive snaps apiece last week against Green Bay, leaving room for Bell to potentially carve out a role.

Quarterback Situation Remains Unsettled

The Vikings will head to Chicago with only two quarterbacks on the active roster: starter Carson Wentz and backup J.J. McCarthy. Notably, the team did not elevate Max Brosmer from the practice squad, nor did they sign him to the 53-man roster. Kyler Murray, who is still working through concussion protocol, has been ruled out for the second consecutive week. Wentz, a former No. 2 overall pick, has been serviceable in his first season with Minnesota, but the lack of a third quarterback underscores the team's confidence in their current depth—or perhaps their reluctance to make additional roster moves at this stage.

What This Means for Sunday and Beyond

These elevations are likely the final roster moves before kickoff in Chicago. Van Noy's continued presence suggests he will remain a fixture in Flores' defensive rotation, while Bell's promotion highlights the team's need for receiver depth with Jennings sidelined. As the Vikings navigate the early part of the 2026 season, these small but strategic moves could pay dividends in a tightly contested NFC North. For die-hard fans, the message is clear: the Vikings are leaving no stone unturned as they aim to secure a crucial divisional win on the road.

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