Jalyn Holmes – DT
Vikings fans have probably already forgotten about Holmes even being on the team’s roster. Drafted in the fourth round by Minnesota last year, the former Ohio State defensive lineman only appeared in a total of five games during his rookie season.
Since arriving to the Twin Cities, the Vikings have been converting Holmes into a defensive tackle. He lined up mostly as a defensive end in college, but Minnesota feels he is better suited on the inside.
With Sheldon Richardson leaving this offseason, the second defensive tackle spot next to Linval Joseph will be up for grabs this year.
Most are assuming the job will end up going to veteran Shamar Stephen, who the Vikings brought back this offseason after he spent a year with the Seattle Seahawks. However, Holmes has the chance to prove to Minnesota’s coaching staff over the next few months that he is someone who is deserving of a starting spot on the team’s 2019 defense.
If he can find a way to beat out Stephen for the second defensive tackle job this summer, then the former Ohio State pass rusher could be in line for a breakout season in purple.