No big surprises on the Vikings’ first unofficial depth chart of 2018
By Adam Patrick
The Minnesota Vikings released their first unofficial depth chart of 2018 on Tuesday and their decisions were pretty predictable.
There are moments that go on in each year for the Minnesota Vikings that signify the regular season is getting closer and closer. On Tuesday, the latest moment came when the Vikings released their first unofficial depth chart of 2018.
With this depth chart, it’s easier to get an idea on who Minnesota plans to roll out on the field together in their preseason matchup against the Denver Broncos on Saturday. Except for the fact that most of the Vikings’ first-string offensive line is injured at this point in time (fun…).
Below is how Minnesota’s first unofficial depth chart looks for now.
Offense:
Defense:
Special Teams:
On the offensive side of the ball for the Vikings, the only real surprise is Brandon Zylstra being listed as a third-string wide receiver.
Minnesota Vikings
But at the same time, Zylstra has been receiving a bunch of praise from coaches and teammates this offseason, so his current standing is actually not that surprising for those who have been keeping up with his progress this year.
On defense, the starting lineup is basically the same as last season except for the fact that Sheldon Richardson is now one of Minnesota’s two starting defensive tackles.
Terence Newman over Mike Hughes on the cornerback depth chart is a little interesting considering how much people have been raving about Hughes at training camp this year. However, the rookie still has plenty of time to improve his standing on the depth chart before the regular season begins in September.
Speaking of Hughes, he is also listed as the backup behind Marcus Sherels for both kick returner and punt returner. The rookie is expected to have a good chance to open the season as the Vikings’ kick returner and with a good preseason, he could possibly take over Sherels’ duties as the team’s punt returner as well.
Do not expect Minnesota’s starting lineup to change much when the regular season begins. But their depth could definitely see some significant shuffling over the next month.