Vikings Training Camp 2018: Previewing the defensive line
By Chris Schad
Defensive Tackle Depth:
Jaleel Johnson, Ifeadi Odenigbo, Jalyn Holmes, and Curtis Cothran
Behind Joseph and Richardson, the Vikings will be relying on several draft and developmental prospects to fill the void.
Johnson is first on that list after a rookie season in 2017 where he didn’t play much. With just five games of experience under his belt, his development will be crucial to establish depth on the inside.
Odenigbo falls into the same category as Johnson. The Northwestern product also had a solid preseason a year ago, but he couldn’t crack the rotation once the games started to count. With things wide open this year, he will also have a chance to get off the practice squad and make a contribution.
Holmes is a third-round pick who the Vikings will hope to convert from defensive end this season. He doesn’t have the explosiveness to have an impact on the outside, so the hope is that the athleticism he does have will transfer to the inside. If Johnson or Odenigbo can’t step up, the door could be open for Holmes to get playing time in his rookie year.
Next: Training Camp 2018 preview, offensive line
Cothran is a undrafted free-agent that Minnesota will hope to see add some strength during training camp. There are some traits there, but the upside for the Penn State product would be a stint on the practice squad.