Final Vikings 53-man roster projection for the 2021 season
By Adam Carlson
Defensive line (9)
- Everson Griffen
- Danielle Hunter
- Patrick Jones II
- Michael Pierce
- Sheldon Richardson
- Dalvin Tomlinson
- Armon Watts
- Stephen Weatherly
- D.J. Wonnum
- Janarius Robinson (IR)
This season, the Minnesota Vikings beefed up their defensive line in a big way. Not only will they get back star pass rusher Danielle Hunter, but they brought back former defensive ends Stephen Weatherly and Everson Griffen to likely pair with him on the ends.
In the middle, the “Meaty Boys” (Michael Pierce and Dalvin Tomlinson) should be a force to be reckoned with. The big defensive tackle duo will be a hard barrier for teams to penetrate and help the defensive unit that struggled to stop the run last year.
Sheldon Richardson is a wild card that can be plugged into numerous spots on the line. Meanwhile, D.J. Wonnum could see some time at linebacker if his work in training camp is an example of how they will use him.
Armon Watts will serve as a backup defensive tackle or rotational player while Patrick Jones II continues to grow and develop as a pass rusher. These two players may see limited time on the field, but should still find ways to contribute.