Linebackers (5)
- Anthony Barr
- Troy Dye
- Ben Gedeon
- Eric Kendricks
- Eric Wilson
As of this writing, Ben Gedeon is currently on the Physically Unable to Perform list but could be good to go by the time final cuts roll around. Even if he is healthy, he could have already lost his starting job and be regulated to backup duties and special teams.
Eric Wilson got the transition tag from Minnesota this year and could slide into the starting lineup with Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks this year. Considering Wilson has filled in at multiple spots in the unit since joining the Vikings, he will also fill in as the primary backup for both his co-stars in at linebacker.
Troy Dye has shown a lot of potential on tape to impress this preseason and join the team’s 53 man roster. His combination of football intelligence and athleticism should be exactly what the team is looking for to round out the roster.
Meanwhile, Cameron Smith has taken the year off from football to have heart surgery. He should return at full strength for the 2021 season, but the depth past him is sketchy at best for the team. If they do decide to take a sixth linebacker into the 53 man roster, expect the corresponding cut to come from the defensive tackles.