5 surprise players who could make the Vikings’ 2019 roster
By Nik Edlund
De’Angelo Henderson – RB
De’Angelo Henderson is one of the newest Vikings, but just because he’s a latecomer doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a shot to make the final roster.
It’s pretty clear who will be topping Minnesota’s running back depth chart in 2019. Dalvin Cook will be the starter and third-round rookie Alexander Mattison will likely be the primary backup and get a handful of touches each game.
After that is Mike Boone and Ameer Abdullah and that isn’t the toughest competition in the world for Henderson to overcome.
Boone is a hard, physical runner. He flashed at times during last year’s preseason but when he was given a chance when the games actually mattered, he didn’t do much. Boone rushed the ball eleven times for just 47 yards last season. Abdullah is looked at as more of a kick returner these days and he is by no means guaranteed a roster spot.
Henderson has some things in his favor. He has a short compact but powerful frame. He has a very strong lower body that he uses to drive for extra yardage when defenders are trying to bring him down.
He is also a good receiver out of the backfield. The biggest thing going in Henderson’s favor is his one cut and gone style of play. It fits in perfectly to the zone blocking scheme the Vikings will be utilizing this season.
He is also familiar with both Gary Kubiak from his time in Denver as well as Rick Dennison when he was with the Jets. If Henderson can put together a couple of solid preseason showings this year, he could beat out Boone and Abdullah for the third spot on Minnesota’s running back depth chart.