8 players who should be on the Vikings’ free agency wish list for 2020

(Photo by Joe Amon/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images) Justin Simmons
(Photo by Joe Amon/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images) Justin Simmons /
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(Photo by: 2019 Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) Joe Thuney
(Photo by: 2019 Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) Joe Thuney /

Joe Thuney – LG

Minnesota’s offensive line took some steps in the right direction in 2019, but there is still plenty of work to be done with this unit.

The Vikings will be looking for ways to improve their offensive line this offseason and upgrading at left guard should be among their top priorities. Another year of Pat Elflein starting at left guard is something Minnesota cannot afford if they want the unit to continue making progress.

In place of Elflein, the Vikings can turn their attention to free agency and attempt to sign veteran left guard Joe Thuney. With the New England Patriots for the last four seasons, Thuney has developed into one of the best young blockers in the NFL.

It’s been over two years since the free-agent guard allowed a sack and in 2019, he didn’t even draw a single penalty. In comparison, Elflein was flagged for eight penalties last season in addition to giving up six sacks.

No matter what Minnesota decides to do at quarterback for the next few years, finding a better option at left guard is something that needs to be done sooner than later.