Chris Cook returns from IR to Minnesota Vikings' lineup

The Minnesota Vikings have gained some depth in their secondary as they prepare for a must-win game against the Houston Texans.

The team announced Saturday that cornerback Chris Cook has been added to the active roster. Cook was moved to injured reserve under the "designated-to-return" tag after suffering a broken arm in a Week 8 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

At the time of the injury, Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said the best-case scenario for Cook was a return for the playoffs if the Vikings advanced. Cook beat that projection by two weeks, and re-enters a secondary tasked with stopping Texans wideout Andre Johnson, who has been on a vicious tear in recent weeks.

Cook started Minnesota's first seven games, though it's unclear what his role will be Sunday when the Vikings travel to Houston.

The Vikings also promoted defensive end George Johnson from the practice squad. To make room, the team waived tight end Allen Reisner and guard Mark Asper.

Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.