5 Vikings to Watch: Preseason Week 1 vs. the Saints

Dru Samia – OG

This fourth-round rookie was generating a lot of buzz early in camp. Coaches were in awe of his massive size and were impressed with the way he handled himself and his overall athletic ability. There was plenty of scuttlebutt going around that Dru Samia could push newly signed Josh Kline for his job at right guard. Boy, what a difference a month makes.

Samia has been running with the third-string offensive line in camp and barely a peep has been made about his camp so far. Hopefully, the team is making the rookie earn his dues and battle for his job, but it is a little disheartening that Samia hasn’t already overtaken Danny Isidora on the depth chart.

Since he’s on the third team, Samia should get plenty of run in Friday’s game against the Saints. Looking at New Orleans’ depth chart, there is a chance Samia could go against veterans like Ziggy Hood and Sylvester Williams. Playing against those veterans could be great for Samia’s progression and it will give the coaching staff a chance to evaluate him against some experienced competition.

Samia likely won’t be on the third team for long, but how he fares in an extended look this Friday will go a long way in determining how long he remains buried on the depth chart.