5 Vikings players with soaring stock at the bye week
By Dean Jones
Christian Darrisaw – OT
It’s only been a small sample size where Christian Darrisaw is concerned. However, the Vikings potentially have a franchise left tackle on their hands based on what we’ve seen so far.
Darrisaw encountered a frustrating start to his time with the organization, thanks to injury. He was brought on slowly by head coach Mike Zimmer, who finally installed the first-round pick into the starting lineup at the Carolina Panthers in Week 6.
This wasn’t the easiest of tasks for Darrisaw against the formidable pass-rushing duo of Haason Reddick and Brian Burns. But the Virginia Tech product was absolutely flawless to provide quarterback Kirk Cousins with enough time in the pocket to lead the Vikings to victory.
Darrisaw has yet to give up a sack or concede a penalty in 117 snaps this season. Providing there are no further complications on the health front, Minnesota will have a supreme tackle tandem with Brian O’Neill solidifying the right-hand side.
With the interior offensive line also making notable strides, this is a solid foundation for the likes of Cousins and Dalvin Cook to propel the Vikings into the postseason conversation.
Hopes were high for Darrisaw coming into the franchise. They are now through the roof.