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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 29: Defensive lineman James Lynch of Baylor runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 29, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 29: Defensive lineman James Lynch of Baylor runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 29, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Expectations

It’s completely understandable why the Minnesota Vikings wanted to add James Lynch in the 2020 NFL Draft. Not only did he prove that he can win battles in the trenches but many of his problem areas are ones the coaching staff likely feel they can iron out in a short time.

It’s unknown what the Vikings think about their depth at defensive tackle. They could be happy with Shamar Stephen returning as the starter with Armon Watts already establishing himself as a solid player. However, having someone who can step in as a backup in the event of an injury could be very valuable.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see Mike Zimmer want to insert Lynch into the lineup during obvious passing downs to get pressure on the opposing quarterback, especially if the team can polish his play and he looks as productive as he was at the college level.

He may see some action on special teams as a rookie, but his play on defense could be limited by having personnel already in place and allowing him time to develop. He likely won’t see the field much as a rookie, but that doesn’t mean his selection won’t pay off in the long run.

Related Story. 10 best Vikings fourth round draft picks of all time. light

It will be interesting to watch James Lynch develop as a defensive lineman for the Minnesota Vikings. However, at least for now, the team and its fans should temper their expectations for the young pass rusher in 2020.

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