What happened: The waived players are cornerback Tyreek Chappell and defensive lineman Taki Taimani. Minnesota's changes span tight end, cornerback and defensive line during the preseason.

Why it matters: The turnover reshapes three position groups as Minnesota approaches regular-season roster decisions. Lauter's arrival adds a tight end while the injury designations remove Chappell and Taimani from the immediate competition.

What to watch: Lauter's workload and the revised cornerback and defensive-line rotations bear watching.