Vikings add 3-year ACC starter to practice squad

The Minnesota Vikings retained rookie offensive lineman Tristan Leigh on Monday, signing the former Clemson Tigers left tackle to their practice squad following Sunday’s roster cuts.

Leigh started at left tackle during each of his final three college seasons, giving Minnesota an experienced developmental option. The Vikings waived the undrafted rookie Sunday after he logged more than 100 snaps at both tackle positions during the preseason.

CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz took to X, formerly Twitter, on Monday to report the signing while describing Leigh’s background.

“The #Vikings are signing rookie offensive lineman Tristan Leigh to their practice squad, sources tell @CBSSports.

Leigh, a former five-star recruit coming out of high school, was Clemson’s starting left tackle the last three seasons at the college level.”

The #Vikings are signing rookie offensive lineman Tristan Leigh to their practice squad, sources tell @CBSSports.

Leigh, a former five-star recruit coming out of high school, was Clemson’s starting left tackle the last three seasons at the college level. pic.twitter.com/Q3IYBzywgW

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) August 31, 2026

Leigh appeared in 42 games and made 33 starts during five seasons at Clemson. He played 2,202 offensive snaps and became one of the program’s most vocal leaders during his final two years.

The former five-star recruit moved into the starting lineup in 2023 and remained the Tigers’ primary left tackle through the 2025 season. His college experience gives the Vikings another option behind their active-roster tackles.

Minnesota also claimed guard Trevor Keegan and center Nick Samac off waivers Monday. Those additions reshaped the offensive line after center Michael Jurgens moved to injured reserve and Walter Rouse was traded to the New England Patriots.

By placing Leigh on the practice squad, Minnesota can continue developing him without using a spot on its 53-man roster. The arrangement keeps a familiar player in the organization after his preseason work. The Vikings can also elevate him for a game if injuries create a need, although the signing does not guarantee regular-season snaps.

The Vikings open their 2026 season on September 13 against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Leigh will begin the year developing behind Christian Darrisaw, Brian O’Neill, and the Vikings’ other active-roster tackles.

The post Vikings add 3-year ACC starter to practice squad appeared first on ClutchPoints.