Vikings 2019: Way too early 53-man roster projection
By Chris Schad
Defensive Line (8)
- Starters: Danielle Hunter, Shamar Stephen, Linval Joseph, Everson Griffen
- Backups: Stephen Weatherly, Jalyn Holmes, Jaleel Johnson, Ifeadi Odenigbo
The defensive line and secondary remain the engine of Mike Zimmer’s defense and the question with these two groups is just how many the Minnesota Vikings will keep on the final roster. Already written in pen are mainstays Danielle Hunter, Linval Joseph, and Everson Griffen along with Stephen Weatherly, but from there, it’s anyone’s guess who could fill this group out.
The competition will be especially fierce in the middle as the Vikings will look to find their new three-tech defensive tackle. The Vikings already signed Shamar Stephen in free agency, but behind them should be a battle royal that will feature projects Jaleel Johnson and Jalyn Holmes as well as sixth-round draft pick Armon Watts.
The edge will be interesting for that fourth (and possibly fifth) defensive lineman spot as this could be the year Ifeadi Odenigbo breaks through and makes the roster. Other intriguing prospects such as Tashawn Bower and Ade Aruna will have their say making this one of the better training camp battles to watch.