Minnesota Vikings 53 man roster projection: Preseason edition

7 of 12

NEW ORLEANS, LA - AUGUST 09: Minnesota Vikings defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo (95) sacks New Orleans Saints quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) during an NFL preseason game between the New Orleans Saints and the Minnesota Vikings on August 9, 2019 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, LA. (Photo by Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

NEW ORLEANS, LA – AUGUST 09: Minnesota Vikings defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo (95) (Photo by Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Defensive ends (4)

The pass rush of the Minnesota Vikings is one of the best features on the team. With so many talented players who can get pressure on opposing quarterbacks, this will be a tough unit to earn a roster spot on.

Here are the defensive ends projected to be on the team’s 53-man roster:

There might not be a more destructive and productive duo of defensive ends in the NFL than Griffen and Hunter when they both are healthy. The youth of Hunter is easily forgotten when watching him use his speed, power, and athleticism to beat offensive tackles while Griffen’s experience and motor make him tough to keep blocked.

Past those two, Weatherly deserves a lot of credit. He stepped in last season with Griffen was out and held his own. Even though he didn’t have the sack production of Griffen or Hunter, his value as the primary backup has to be apparent.

Sadly, Tashawn Bower suffered a season-ending injury. However, that does open the door for Odenigbo to finally make the team’s roster after being cut the two previous years. And judging by his efforts in Week 1 of the preseason, he’s ready for the big time.

Home/Minnesota Vikings News