5 candidates to be the Vikings starting right guard in 2021
By Adam Carlson
Who will be the starting right guard for the Minnesota Vikings when the 2021 NFL season begins?
Last year, the Minnesota Vikings didn’t have many answers for their issues on the interior of the offensive line. Despite solid play from their bookends at offensive tackle, the guards and center failed to protect Kirk Cousins and regularly allowed pressure up the gut.
The team fared better as run blockers. Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison both found success running behind the offensive line of the purple and gold, with the team as a whole gaining 2,283 yards on the ground (fifth in the NFL) and averaging 4.9 yards per rushing attempt (fourth in the NFL).
Four of the five spots on the offensive line seem to be locked down. Rookie Christian Darrisaw is expected to be the team’s left tackle with Brian O’Neill returning to handle duties as the right tackle. Center Garrett Bradbury should return for another year as the starter and it is expected that Ezra Cleveland will get the nod at left guard.
That only leaves the right guard spot up for grabs. There are some options for the Minnesota Vikings but each has some pros and cons heading into the 2021 NFL season. Let’s take a look at five options the team has at the moment.