5 Minnesota Vikings rookies who could surprise in 2022

Brian Asamoah – LB

Although Eric Kendricks is still playing at an incredibly high level, the depth behind the All-Pro linebacker was suspect at best despite the Minnesota Vikings acquiring Jordan Hicks and moving to a new 3-4 base.

Hicks should be a nice addition and compliments what Kendricks brings to the table well. However, there should also be a big role to play for Brian Asamoah based on what the rookie displayed during his time at Oklahoma.

Asamoah has everything one looks for in a high-level linebacker at the next level. He is fast, physical, and can impact almost all areas of the game when called upon – traits that no doubt caught the eye of the Vikings en route to the prospect being taken at No. 66 overall.

There will not be any immediate pressure on Asamoah to come in and become influential from a starting position. This should ease his transition and allow the player to refine certain areas of his game with a view to potentially increasing reps later on in the campaign.

Asamoah has the energy and explosiveness to contribute significantly to special teams right out of the gate. This also gives the Vikings a potentially dominant presence in the event Kendricks or Hicks went out through injury at any stage.