Top 4 preseason performers for the Minnesota Vikings in 2018
By Adam Patrick
Stephen Weatherly – DE
Drafted by the Vikings in the seventh round back in 2016, Weatherly displayed a ton of progression on the field this preseason.
In four exhibition games this year, the young defensive end led all Minnesota defenders with a total of 14 quarterback pressures (seven hits, five hurries, and two sacks). Weatherly’s pair of sacks also tied for the team lead this preseason with four other Vikings players.
His play this summer likely had a lot to do with Minnesota’s decision to release veteran defensive lineman Brian Robison on Saturday. While Robison’s experience is valuable, Weatherly clearly showed he can be just as good of a pass rusher as the veteran (if not better) for the team in 2018.
Even though he won’t be a starter during the upcoming season, the young defensive end should be able to provide a new wrinkle for a Vikings’ defense that is already one of the best units in the NFL.