Vikings LT Matt Kalil Hopes To Forget His 2014 Season

When you talk about players on the Minnesota Vikings team that had a disappointing 2014 season, left tackle Matt Kalil is a name that comes up pretty often. In fact, fans grew mighty tired of cursing his name and even resorted to confronting the former first round draft pick following a game last year.

Matt Kalil’s struggles could have come from a many places. He was battling to stay healthy and has now confirmed that he had surgery on both of his knees this offseason. When you add in that he had one of the most frustrating left guards in the NFL lined up beside him last season, it’s easy to see why he had a very disappointing 2014 season.

However, Kalil wants to put the frustrations of last season behind him and prepare for 2015 now that he’s feeling healthier and is mentally prepared to play. Here is what he said in an article on the CBS Minnesota website:

"“What are you going to worry about last year for?” he asked. “I’m focused on this year and excited to get after it again. It’s fun to play. It’s fun to be out there.”"

Nov 16, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Vikings tackle Matt Kalil (75) during the third quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

For the left tackle position to once again become a strength for the Minnesota Vikings, the team will need Matt Kalil to either return to his rookie form or at least improve drastically from last year. For that to happen, he will have to put the struggles of last year and the former condition of his knees to the back of his mind.

From the sound of things, Kalil is ready to do just that.

"“From a mental standpoint, physical standpoint, it’s the best I’ve felt in a long time,” he said. “That’s all I can say.”"

There are high expectations for Matt Kalil since he recently signed his fifth year extension with the Vikings on his rookie deal and will have a new teammate helping him out on the left side. The Vikings will need him to protect second year quarterback Teddy Bridgewater‘s blind side as well as help make lanes for former NFL MVP Adrian Peterson.

Hopefully, Kalil can return in prime form for the 2015 season and help silence his critics.

Next: Minnesota Vikings 2015 Game By Game Previews

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