Minnesota Vikings: 5 young players whose stock is rising
By Dan Zinski
Oct 2, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; A Minnesota Vikings helmet sits on the sidelines during warmups prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 42-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
4. Blake Renaud
Head coach Mike Zimmer said in a press conference the other day that it’s “not critical” for the Vikings to have a fullback on the roster. Zim’s main concern is finding the best 53 players and right now there might not be a true fullback on the team who is worthy of making the cut.
Zimmer’s words sound pretty ominous if you’re Zach Line or Blake Renaud, the two true fullbacks currently getting significant action in preseason. Of those two players, Line probably should be the most concerned. He was unable to play in preseason game 1 due to an injury, and in game 2 he was clearly outplayed by Renaud.
Renaud received a +1.5 grade from PFF for the Buccaneers game. Line scored a TD against Tampa but he also missed some blocks and had a fumble late in the first half, ending up with a very poor -3.6 grade from PFF. Line certainly has time to turn it around and convince coaches he should be the guy if they decide to keep a fullback.
IF they decide to keep a fullback.