Ben Gedeon tabbed as possible breakout player for Minnesota Vikings
By Adam Carlson
On a team full of talented stars, NFL Mocks believes this could be the year that linebacker Ben Gedeon emerges as a star for the Minnesota Vikings.
It can be hard to stand out in the Minnesota Vikings defense. With stars like Harrison Smith, Everson Griffen, Anthony Barr, and others making amazing plays, solid players can get overshadowed on a regular basis.
Recently, George Stockburger NFL Mocks listed one player for each team that has the potential to be a breakout player during the 2018 NFL season and chose linebacker Ben Gedeon to represent the Vikings.
Interestingly enough, Gedeon was on the field for only 24.52% of defensive plays during the 2017 NFL season since the team spent a huge amount of time in nickel defense with Barr and Eric Kendricks on the field as linebackers and an extra defensive back to replace Gedeon according to Pro Football Reference.
Minnesota Vikings
If this split continues, it would be difficult to see Gedeon have the opportunity to make a name for himself during the 2018 campaign.
However, the second-year linebacker could make the most of his opportunities and be impressive when he is on the field.
A safer decision for a breakout player on defense could be Mackensie Alexander, who played 32.46% of defensive snaps last year (121 more plays than Gedeon) and will move back to a more natural position on the outside for the 2018 season thanks to the drafting of Mike Hughes.
Switching over to the offense, another good option would have been guard Nick Easton. While there is still speculation as to whether he will be on the left or right side of the offensive line, Easton will have the benefit of playing next to the continually improving Pat Elflein and can showcase his run blocking skills, particularly on the strong side of the line.
Next: Projecting the Vikings' final 2018 roster (Post-draft)
Who do you think will be the breakout player for the Minnesota Vikings during the 2018 NFL season? Will Ben Gedeon get enough of a chance to shine on defense? And can Mackensie Alexander thrive in his new role? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.