5 candidates to be the Vikings third starting linebacker in 2021

Troy Dye

A fourth-round selection of the Minnesota Vikings in the 2020 NFL Draft, Troy Dye will have an opportunity to prove that the experience he acquired last season when Barr and Kendricks were out of the lineup could pay off.

Dye had 202 defensive snaps last year and accumulated 28 combined tackles, two pass defenses, and one quarterback hit in his five games played (two starts). However, those statistics include his 142 special teams snaps.

For a mid-round draft pick, getting Dye some experience was wise for Minnesota since they see potential in him and want to see him develop quickly  He should be among the favorites to win the starting gig this year.

The only things that might hold him back are his relative inexperience and slender frame. However, if he has bulked up and can continue to learn, he could emerge from the linebacker grouping with a starting job this year.