EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings announced the release of cornerback Akayleb Evans on Saturday, marking yet another disappointment for their struggling 2022 draft class.

Last season, Evans played in 15 games as a starter, but this year he found himself primarily contributing to special teams due to the acquisition of seasoned cornerbacks Stephon Gilmore and Shaquill Griffin.

Selected in the fourth round from the University of Missouri, Evans was one of three defensive backs among the Vikings’ initial five picks in the 2022 draft. Earlier in the year, Minnesota also waived first-round pick Lewis Cine and traded second-round selection Andrew Booth. Additionally, Ed Ingram, another of their second-round choices, recently lost his starting position.

The decision to part ways with Evans was made in order to create space on the roster for tight end Nick Muse, who has been activated from the injured reserve list and is set to participate in Sunday’s matchup against Chicago. Meanwhile, tight end Josh Oliver has been ruled out for the game due to a sprained ankle.