Minnesota Vikings: 5 surprise players who could make roster
By Josh Zinger
Jeremiah Sirles, OL
When the Vikings traded a sixth-round draft pick for Jeremiah Sirles prior to the 2015 season, the offensive line was in a much different position.
After losing Phil Loadholt and Carter Bykowski to season-ending injuries, and with John Sullivan’s status up in the air, offensive line was an incredibly thin position for the Vikings.
Now, while the position is by no means a strength, it is loaded with depth. In addition to getting players back from injury, the team added Alex Boone, Andre Smith, and Willie Beavers over the offseason, giving them a total of 15 players on the O-line.
Considering that the team kept only 9 lineman on the roster last year, the competition will be intense.
With so many players and so few spots to go around, it will be critical for backups to demonstrate the versatility to fill in wherever necessary.
At 6’6″ and 315 pounds, Jeremiah Sirles is perfect for the role of an all-around backup. With the length to play tackle and the strength to play guard, Sirles is capable of playing four of the five spots on the line in a pinch.
Sirles played guard for the Chargers in 2014, starting one game in relief of injury, and has since moved around with the Vikings.
After backing up right tackle last year, Sirles has reportedly been getting snaps at left tackle during OTAs so far.
In addition to Sirles’ positional flexibility, his youth and upside are very intriguing. At only 24 years old, Sirles has plenty of room to continue developing under new offensive line coach Tony Sparano.
Even in such a crowded position group, Sirles’ youth and versatility could secure him a spot on the final roster. He’ll need to prove himself as a solid and consistent backup option in training camp, but don’t be surprised to see Sirles on the team come September.