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What the Vikings can expect from James Lynch in 2020

By Adam Carlson

MORGANTOWN, WV - OCTOBER 25: James Lynch #93 of the Baylor Bears celebrates after a sack in the first half against the West Virginia Mountaineers at Mountaineer Field on October 25, 2018 in Morgantown, West Virginia. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
MORGANTOWN, WV - OCTOBER 25: James Lynch #93 of the Baylor Bears celebrates after a sack in the first half against the West Virginia Mountaineers at Mountaineer Field on October 25, 2018 in Morgantown, West Virginia. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: James Lynch #DL34 of the Baylor Bears speaks to the media on day three of the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 27, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
James Lynch #DL34 of the Baylor Bears  (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

The good

There is a lot to like about James Lynch. The Baylor defensive lineman found a lot of success getting after opposing success at the college level and there are many great reasons he could find that same kind of production as a pro. Here are some of the traits NFL.com and CBS Sports really like when it comes to the new addition to the Vikings.

Strength and power

Opposing offensive lineman lined up across from Lynch are going to wake up covered in bruises the next morning. A strong bull rush move will knock many offensive linemen off-balance using brute force.

Body frame

Other than just being a powerful individual, the thick, muscular frame of Lynch helps him to win battles that come down to strength and leverage. Being able to get low and attack with power is a big reason he can win in the trenches.

Quickness off the snap

Not only does Lynch react well to the start of plays but he has a quick punch off the snap that can punch the opposition right off the bat. This gives him an initial advantage against opposition that might not be as fast to react.

Other great traits:

  • Versatile play – After playing on the end or interior in college, the Vikings can move Lynch around as needed to generate a pass rush from different locations.
  • Production – Lynch is a proven playmaker, generating 20 sacks in three years at Baylor with 13.5 of those coming during his 2019 campaign.
  • A mean streak – Aggressive play and a big motor will keep Lynch on the field at the pro level. He will work through plays until the whistle while working tirelessly to get to the quarterback.
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