It would be a bit of an understatement to say that the Minnesota Vikings offensive line struggled during the 2014 NFL season. Despite a huge amount of injuries to starters and some disappointing play, it appears as though four members of the unit that started last season will be returning. Matt Kalil, John Sullivan, Brandon Fusco and Phil Loadholt should reprise their roles, but last year’s starter, Charlie Johnson, is no longer with the team.
Instead, the Vikings brought back veteran Joe Berger to compete with rookies as well as second year guard David Yankey.
The idea that NFL.com projects Yankey to beat out Joe Berger for the Vikings starting left guard position in camp is an interesting one. Yankey seemed to struggle last season and was limited to minor roles on the team. He’s been working hard according to an article on TwinCities.com, but to project him as a starter might be a bit ambitious.
Jul 25, 2014; Mankato, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings guard David Yankey (66) leaves the field at training camp at Minnesota State University. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
In fact, it might not even be the left guard spot that is open for the Minnesota Vikings. Recently, there has been talk of Brandon Fusco moving from right guard to left guard and then having an open competition for the right guard spot. According to Mike Zimmer, that competition includes rookie offensive lineman T.J. Clemmings.
There will be a lot that is worked out in camp. We’ll have to see how guys like Fusco and Loadholt return from injury as well as if Matt Kalil looks improved upon from last year. When you add in that Brandon Fusco could switch sides and Clemmings is an option to compete with an established veteran in Joe Berger and a high potential rookie like David Yankey, it will be a lot of fun to see what will happen with the Minnesota Vikings offensive line in training camp and preseason.
What do you think will happen with the open guard spot? Do you think it will be the left or right side that needs to be filled? And who will step up and grab that spot this preseason? Let me know what you guys think in the comments below.
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