Minnesota Vikings 53 man roster projection: Preseason edition

Defensive tackles (5)

Those big guys in the trenches have a lot of responsibility in a Mike Zimmer defense. Not only do they have to stuff the run and fill holes but they need to generate some push to get pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Thankfully, the Minnesota Vikings have some talented guys to take on the job.

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

1. Linval Joseph
2. Shamar Stephen
3. Jaleel Johnson
4. Jalyn Holmes
5. Hercules Mata’afa

Stephen will be the man filling in for the departing Sheldon Richardson. Those are big shoes for him to fill, but the Vikings have spoken about how he does a great job in the system and shouldn’t miss a beat this season.

Meanwhile, Joseph is still healing and resting, but fans have to hope the “Big Goon” will be back in time to use his massive frame and power to disrupt offenses this season. If he is forced to miss any time, Johnson will be the man to start in his place.

Minnesota will be in a sticky spot with trying to keep four defensive tackles, but seeing too much potential in both Holmes and Mata’afa to let one go. Both made quite an impression in Week 1 of the preseason and can be special teams players, so they both should make the roster.