​In a corresponding move following the signing of cornerback Jarod Washington on Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings have waived undrafted rookie running back Kejon Owens with a non-football illness designation, the team announced. The move comes just a few months after Minnesota signed the former Florida International standout following the 2026 NFL Draft. Owens entered the offseason looking to carve out a role in a crowded running back room. However, he faced an uphill battle behind veteran Aaron Jones, Jordan Mason and rookie sixth-round pick Demond Claiborne, while also competing with several other backs for a limited number of roster and practice squad spots. The non-football illness designation indicates Owens’ absence was unrelated to football activities.The Miami native spent all six seasons of his collegiate career at Florida International after redshirting in 2020 and receiving an additional year of eligibility because of the COVID-19 pandemic. His patience paid off with a breakout senior campaign that established him as one of Conference USA’s top offensive players.Owens earned 2025 Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year honors and First-Team All-CUSA recognition after rushing for 1,334 yards and 11 touchdowns on 213 carries across 13 games. His 1,334 rushing yards ranked 10th nationally, while he averaged an impressive 6.3 yards per carry and added 18 receptions for 67 yards.Advanced metrics also reflected his production. Owens earned an 81.4 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, including an 83.3 rushing grade. He forced 39 missed tackles as a runner and averaged 4.0 yards after contact per attempt, showcasing the physical running style that made him an intriguing developmental prospect.Across his FIU career, Owens totaled 2,262 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns on 411 carries while averaging 5.5 yards per rush. He also contributed as a receiver with 41 catches for 206 yards.At Florida International’s Pro Day, Owens measured 5-foot-10 and 203 pounds. He recorded a 4.72-second 40-yard dash, a 30.5-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-8 broad jump and completed 18 bench press repetitions, displaying the strength and toughness that defined his game.If Owens clears waivers and is able to return to full health, a reunion with the Vikings should not be completely ruled out. Teams frequently bring back players who were waived during training camp, particularly undrafted rookies the coaching staff has already evaluated throughout the offseason program. Should Owens recover and the Vikings have a need for additional running back depth later in the year, he could be a candidate to return on the practice squad, where he would continue his development while remaining familiar with Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system.But for now, his Vikings tenure ends before the preseason begins.