Defensive tackles (6)
- Jalyn Holmes
- Jaleel Johnson
- James Lynch
- Hercules Mata’afa
- Shamar Stephen
- Armon Watts
Keeping six defensive tackles would be an interesting approach for the Vikings this season, but there are plenty of reasons Minnesota could make this decision. After the team let Linval Joseph walk, saw a failed physical by P.J. Hall, and Michael Pierce opted out for the season, there are plenty of question marks at the two spots.
Jaleel Johnson seems to be the obvious choice to take over the nose tackle spot, but it wouldn’t be too shocking to see the Vikings go smaller and plug in a player like Armon Watts in that spot. Since the two will likely be fighting for the spot, it makes sense that the loser would be the backup.
At the other spot, Minnesota seems comfortable with Shamar Stephen. However, he was mostly ineffective last year and should be pushed by several players including rookie James Lynch, second-year players Jalyn Holmes, and even the undersized Hercules Mata’afa.
Even if some of these players never see the field, they are the type of players who could find roles on special teams to fill out the roster. Still, this grouping may see more cuts, but for now, there is just too much unknown talent to let players go.