Emmanuel Lamur

Lamur is back to practicing just one day after missing practice for an unknown reason. He played in all 16 games a season ago, despite registering just 40 total tackles, a season after securing 92 total ball carriers in 2014 for Cincinnati. In his first season in Minnesota, he should add needed depth in the Vikings middle of the defense, though he will certainly have to improve on his previous performance to see more playing time.

This is simply a depth move, as at 6-foot-4, Lamur will serve as an excellent backup Sam linebacker behind Anthony Barr. It also helps that Lamur played under Zimmer in his defense when Zimmer coached in Cincinnati.

Lamur totaled 40 tackles, 0.5 sacks and one forced fumble for the Bengals last season over 16 games. He will add depth to the Vikings linebacking core which was hit with injuries last year.

Lamur wasn't a difference maker of any kind for the Bengals this season, so his injury will not greatly impact Cincy's chances in the playoffs going forward. In a corresponding move, the Bengals promoted linebacker Trevor Roach from the practice squad.

The linebacking corps has been a strength of the Bengals for years, and while Lamur may not be flashy, he is a solid backup. Josh Shaw would most likely see increased snaps if Lamur cannot return.