Coming into the season, there were questions at nearly every spot on the offensive line. However, I don’t think any of the question marks were as large as the one regarding left tackle Matt Kalil.
Nov 23, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings tackle Matt Kalil (75) blocks against the Green Bay Packers in the second quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Last year, we saw a version of the former Pro Bowl offensive tackle that had fans very worried. He was playing through an injury and struggling mentally on the field, resulting in poor play and poor judgement. It even reflected off the field, when he had an altercation with a fan following a game.
This year, things are looking much brighter for Matt Kalil. Despite an offensive line that is in shambles due to injury, Kalil has been a bright spot. To this point, he’s given up only three quarterback pressures, a drastic difference from his numbers at this time last year according to Pro Football Focus on Twitter.
Matt Kalil has allowed 3 pressures this season. At this point a year ago he had allowed 3 sacks and 14 pressures. pic.twitter.com/2yQgocoQjt
— PFF (@PFF) September 30, 2015
Matt Kalil will face his toughest test of the season on Sunday when he faces off against the Denver Broncos. Their tireless pass rush should be able to take advantage of a depleted Minnesota Vikings offensive line, but Kalil needs to be the man to stand up and be able to handle the pressure.
At this point in the season, it’s too early to say that Matt Kalil has returned to his Pro Bowl form, but it has to be noted how much improvement we’ve seen from this season compared to the last. Hopefully, he can continue to prove that he’s a solid starting left tackle in the NFL and remind us why he was the #4 overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.
Next: Minnesota Vikings 2015 Game By Game Previews
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