Vikings activate Reichard, DePaola from IR, waive Romo

The Minnesota Vikings have their starting specialists back.

On Saturday, the team officially activated kicker Will Reichard and long-snapper Andrew DePaola from injured reserve. They've each missed the last four games due to injuries — a hamstring strain and broken hand, respectively — suffered against the Indianapolis Colts on Nov. 3. They'll now both play on Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons.

John Parker Romo and Jake McQuaide filled in admirably for Reichard and DePaola. McQuaide was waived earlier this week and Romo was formally cut on Saturday. In four games, Romo made 11 of his 12 field goal attempts — including two game-winners — and seven of his eight extra-point attempts.

It was a great story, and one that should get Romo and McQuaide more NFL chances in the future.

However, the Vikings now turn back to their starting duo. Reichard made his first 14 field goal attempts of the season before missing two in the game against the Colts, and he's been perfect on 23 extra-point tries.

Additionally, the Vikings also elevated rookie edge rusher Gabriel Murphy to the game-day roster. He's been on IR most of the season and on the practice squad the past couple of weeks, so Sunday will mark his first NFL game-day activation.

Minnesota may need him with several guys banged up.

Kickoff on Sunday is set for noon at U.S. Bank Stadium.