5 surprising candidates to make the Vikings 53-man roster in 2022
By Dean Jones
Luiji Vilain – LB
Even though Luiji Vilain was probably disappointed to not hear his name called during the 2022 NFL Draft, his misery turned to elation when the Vikings put together a pretty substantial financial package to secure the undrafted free agent.
This was a supreme vote of confidence in the linebacker, who made his transfer from Michigan to Wake Forest last season count with nine sacks and eight tackles for loss. Vilain was a constant menace coming off the edge and also displayed a high enough football IQ to establish himself as a force against the run for good measure.
Doing the same in Minnesota is the next big task ahead of Vilain. Just where he’s best suited is a complication for the coaching staff to figure out, but having such versatility won’t hurt his chances right now.
As stated previously, the Vikings have a lot of young guns on defense and the right blend of veteran leadership. This was enhanced by the arrival of Za’Darius Smith in free agency, which should be one of the best additions in recent memory providing he stays clear of injury.
Vilain is just starting to carve out his own path. But the Vikings clearly saw enough in the prospect that could suggest a roster spot isn’t entirely out of the question.