The Viking Age
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Pat Elflein continues to impress at center for Minnesota Vikings

By Adam Carlson

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 03: Offensive linemen Pat Elflein of Ohio State and Jessamen Dunker of Tennessee State participate in a blocking drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 03: Offensive linemen Pat Elflein of Ohio State and Jessamen Dunker of Tennessee State participate in a blocking drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Third round draft pick Pat Elflein continues to impress and he battles for the Minnesota Vikings starting center position with Nick Easton.

When the Minnesota Vikings drafted Ohio State offensive lineman Pat Elflein in the 3rd round of the 2017 NFL Draft, it seemed like it was only going to be a matter of time before he took over the starting center job for the team.

Minnesota isn’t lacking quality players at that position. Both Joe Berger and Nick Easton have shown to be completely capable players for the team in the past, but the team is looking to the future as well as trying to add depth and competition.

For the Vikings second preseason game, Elflein got the start with Easton at right guard and Berger at left guard. All three players put up strong performances at their positions, but Easton may have helped solidify himself as the team’s starter in his rookie season.

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Recently, the Pioneer Press shared a statement from Elflein about his performance as a starter and preparation for the team’s second preseason game:

"“It was my first opportunity to get out there and start, so there was a little bit of nerves,’’ Elflein said. “But I feel like, if you prepare well during the week, which we takereally seriously around here, then what do you have to be nervous about? Preparation wise, I felt good and ready to go.’’"

Despite the solid performance, Elflein knows that he still has work to put in if he wants to win the job and stay in the position.

"“They’re trying to get the best five guys out there, and everybody’s competing,’’ Elflein said."

Next: Vikings 2017 schedule breakdown

The Minnesota Vikings will likely continue to evaluate these players in their final two preseason games, but if Pat Elflein continues to play at a high level, he could easily find himself a starter on the offensive line during the 2017 NFL season.

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