Recently released by the Buffalo Bills, former second-round pick Cyrus Kouandjio would be a great signing for the Minnesota Vikings.
With offensive tackle still somewhat of a concern for the Vikings, the team could stand to acquire more competition at the position. After the Buffalo Bills cut ties with former second-round pick Cyrus Kouandjio on Wednesday, the team has the perfect opportunity to do just that.
Just 23-years-old, the 6-foot-7, 322 pound tackle would add depth and would have a chance to compete with newly signed Mike Remmers for playing time immediately. For a line looking to add power and toughness, Kouandjio could be the perfect fit.
Kouandjio, who has been compared to former Vikings lineman Phil Loadholt, brings an uncommon blend of length and power to his game.
Playing in 12 games for the Bills last year (starting five), Kouandjio showed significant potential. Playing particularly well in pass protection, Kouandijo surrendered just one sack all year.
According to Pro Football Focus, the former Alabama star ranked 34th in the NFL out of 78 qualifying tackles. For comparison, newly signed linemen and projected Vikings starters Riley Reiff and Mike Remmers ranked 48th and 51st, respectively.
Of course, the Bills had a reason for releasing the promising young lineman. If the Vikings are going to sign him, they will have to do their research and make sure they are absolutely comfortable with Kouandjio’s off-the-field behavior and injury history.
Minnesota Vikings
Just over a month ago, Kouandjio was found undressed in a field by police in a small town outside of Buffalo, and received medical attention for an undisclosed issue. According to later reports, Kouandjio screamed, “shoot me!” when the officers approached and was acting disoriented.
While details on the incident are sparse and Kouandjio was not arrested, this situation likely factored heavily into the Bills’ decision to release him.
On top of that highly concerning episode, Kouandjio has a worrisome injury history. Kouandjio’s career has been riddled with injuries, dating back to knee issues at Alabama that concerned a number of teams in the lead up to the 2014 draft.
Most recently, Kouandjio required hip surgery this offseason. But he is expected to be recovered in time for training camp. Still, it’s certainly of note that the young tackle has not appeared in more than twelve games in any of his three seasons as a pro.
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Overall, the Vikings’ decision about whether to sign Kouandjio will depend on their comfort level, both with his bizarre off-the-field behavior and with his health. If the Vikings can reconcile those two issues, Kouandjio would be a great buy-low option at a notable position of need.