4 Vikings players facing an uphill battle at 2021 training camp

James Lynch – DT

James Lynch was thrown into the rotation during his rookie season thanks to a series of injuries on the defensive front. The Vikings roster looks far stronger in this particular area of the field heading into training camp, so it remains to be seen what sort of role the former Baylor man can carve out for himself this summer.

Last season’s experience should have done Lynch a world of good, even though his production left a lot to be desired at times.

This is to be expected of a mid-round pick. But what comes next for the player will be equally as important.

It’s a solid foundation from which to build. However, Michael Pierce and Dalvin Tomlinson are solidified as the starting tackle duo next season and there is also the presence of free-agent signing Sheldon Richardson to also consider when examining Lynch’s prospects.

Minnesota also drafted Jaylen Twyman, although his short-term future is up in the air after recently suffering gunshot wounds. This arguably improves Lynch’s chances of earning a place on the rotation once again, but there is much work to be done in pursuit of making strides as a sophomore.

Whether he is capable of this is up for debate. It will be interesting to see how much Lynch has adjusted his game once he takes the field at camp.