Jaylen Twyman was the victim of a shooting in June as a bystander. Now the rookie has been released by the Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings have parted ways with their defensive end Jaylen Twyman, who they first picked in the 6th round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The reason for the release is that the franchise needed to clear a roster spot for wide receiver Dede Westbrook.

To make room for newly signed WR DeDe Westbook, the #Vikings announced they waived sixth-round draft pick Jaylen Twyman because of a non-football injury. He was recently shot 4 times (story here: https://t.co/uoJjedgoVz)

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 26, 2021

Twyman, who played for the Pitt Panthers in college, made headlines on June 21 when he was the victim of a shooting. The defender had been visiting family members in Washington DC and was shot four times. The bullets hit him in the arm, leg, buttocks and shoulder. Fortunately, however, he suffered “only” flesh wounds. 

His agent Drew Rosenhaus then said, “He was able to go to the hospital on his own. He was an innocent bystander who was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. He is expected to make a full recovery.”

The defensive end travelled to Vikings training camp last weekend. Two wounds were reportedly already completely healed. He himself expected to be fit for the start of the season.

Despite the dismissal, it is quite possible that Twyman will once again be seen in a Minnesota Vikings jersey. Courtney Cronin of “ESPN” tweeted that the dismissal was temporary and the franchise could bring the defensive end back to the squad.

It’s procedural. If he clears waivers he reverts back to Minnesota and be out a minimum of 6 games. https://t.co/4CLe5cnTGw

— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) July 26, 2021

However, he would have to sit out for at least six games. 

Twyman could definitely be good for the Vikings’ defence. He recorded 10.5 sacks in the 2019 season before sitting out the 2020 season due to the pandemic.