Minnesota Vikings: Early two deep 2016 depth chart

Aug 9, 2015; Canton, OH, USA; Minnesota Vikings helmet on the field during the 2015 Pro Football Hall of Fame game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2015; Canton, OH, USA; Minnesota Vikings helmet on the field during the 2015 Pro Football Hall of Fame game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 29, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) is sacked by Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (69) and defensive end Brian Robison (96) during the first quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 29, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) is sacked by Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (69) and defensive end Brian Robison (96) during the first quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensive Line

Perhaps the biggest strength of the Minnesota Vikings is their defensive line. Boasting a great combination of youth and experience, this group is able to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt the run game on a regular basis.

Left Defensive End

  1. Brian Robison
  2. Danielle Hunter

This could be an interesting position to watch. Hunter came into the league in a frenzy last year, impressing fans the team greatly. Meanwhile, Robison continues to get older, but is a reliable player who can still bring it. Starting left end could be a closer battle than some may expect.

Right Defensive End

  1. Everson Griffen
  2. Scott Crichton

Griffen has developed his athleticism into the defensive end position in a big way. His larger-than-life personality and ability to motivate the team is unmatched. Crichton will be on the sideline more often than not unless there are injuries, illness or fatigue issues.

Defensive Tackle

  1. Sharrif Floyd
  2. Tom Johnson

Floyd has established himself as a big part of the defensive line’s interior and will hopefully be there for many years going forward. Tom Johnson can be plugged in when needed and plays at a high level whenever Floyd isn’t available.

Nose Tackle

  1. Linval Joseph
  2. Kenrick Ellis

An argument could be made that Linval Joseph is the most important player on the Minnesota Vikings defense. His ability to eat up space yet still get pressure on quarterbacks has made him very valuable. Also, Ellis was a great free agent pickup last year and is solid insurance for the big fellow.

Next: Linebackers