Breaking down the Minnesota Vikings 53-man roster for the 2018 season

(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
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DENVER, CO - AUGUST 11: Quarterback Paxton Lynch #12 of the Denver Broncos throws the ball as he is tackled and covered by defensive end Tashawn Bower #90 of the Minnesota Vikings in the second quarter during an NFL preseason game at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on August 11, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) Tashawn Bower /

Defensive line (9)

Released: Curtis Cothran, Ifeadi Odenigbo, Brian Robison, Jonathan Wynn

The pass rushing talent on this defensive line is insane. Combining Griffen and Hunter while adding in developing talent like Weatherly and Bower, who have flashed whenever their numbers have been called.

Meanwhile, the interior of the line should be dominated by Joseph and Richardson. The two Pro Bowl caliber players should seal up the middle and make it a real challenge for opposing teams to run the ball as well as protect the quarterback.

The shocking cut of the day came in Robison, who took a pay cut to stay with the team and was beloved by fans as well as the locker room. The team will miss his veteran presence, but his release also opens up opportunities for other pass rushers.

Johnson, Holmes, and Parry should all be ready to play at a moments notice but also need more time to adapt to the NFL as well as their new team. Despite that, these talented players would have bigger roles on other teams, but have to deal with an amazing starting 4 that will force them to watch from the sidelines…for now.