Minnesota Vikings: Way-too-early 53-man roster projection
By Adam Carlson
![(Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) Eric Kendricks (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) Eric Kendricks](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthevikingage-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2020-2F11-2F1287109262-850x560-2a73c1fdec97ef8bcb45748dbfeb27043f4f4e0cf47f909c29797ed4ebde99e3.jpg)
Tight Ends (3)
- Tyler Conklin
- Zach Davidson
- Irv Smith, Jr.
It is really strange to complete a list of tight ends for the Minnesota Vikings and not include Kyle Rudolph. He has been a part of the unit since 2011 but his exit opens the door for Irv Smith Jr. to prove he can be a dynamic playmaker and solid blocker.
Minnesota also saw a few flashes from backup tight end Tyler Conklin last season. He started two games in 2020 and played in all 16 where he caught 19 passes for 194 yards and a touchdown. It will be interesting to see how he can perform in a larger role.
Winning the third tight end spot will be tough. There are a lot of new and familiar faces fighting for a job this offseason. Although Minnesota has kept Brandon Dillon around for a few seasons now, it might be time to try something a little different on the roster.
Otherwise, it’s a lot of high-potential, versatile players making out the competition. Former punter Zach Davidson and former receiver Shane Zylstra could both beat out one of the receivers for a spot based on their special teams and red zone ability, but they will need to earn their way on the 53.