Is there actually depth along the defensive line?
What might be just as important as the offensive line trying to establish itself is the second wave of Minnesota’s defensive line trying to prove that they can contribute this season.
Although the Vikings have one of the scariest front fours in all of football with Everson Griffen, Linval Joseph, Sheldon Richardson and Danielle Hunter, defensive line rotations are all the rage after the Philadelphia Eagles rotated their way to the Lombardi Trophy last winter.
For Minnesota to copy that formula, they’re going to need some guys take a leap from last year. Most of the watching should take place in the middle of the line as practice squad stalwarts from a year ago, Jaleel Johnson and Ifeadi Odenigbo, will look to add some punch at defensive tackle.
They’ll also be joined by third-round pick Jalyn Holmes, who is attempting to make the transition from defensive end to three-technique this year.
On the outside, Stephen Weatherly will also try to crack the rotation after being used seldomly in his first two seasons, while Tashawn Bower will look to build off his impressive preseason a year ago. Jonathan Wynn and Ade Aruna will also see time on the edge Saturday.