5 early surprises from Vikings training camp
By Adam Carlson
Good and bad news on the offensive line
Following the disappointing 2021 season, the Minnesota Vikings knew there was work to be done on the offensive line. They have invested a lot into the group, including using high draft picks on left tackle Christian Darrisaw, right tackle Brian O’Neill, and left guard Ezra Cleveland. Still, questions remained at center and right tackle.
The good news for the offense is that veteran Jesse Davis has stepped up and looks as though he could be a favorite to start at right guard. According to head coach Kevin O’Connell. Davis has adjusted quickly to the position and has been working with the first team. That doesn’t mean that he will be the starter on Day 1, but it does raise the floor while players like Ed Ingram and Wyatt Davis learn and develop.
The bad news is that center still seems to be a major issue. Defensive tackle Harrison Phillips has been pushing Garrett Bradbury around, which has been an issue for the smaller lineman since being a first-round pick of Minnesota in 2019. Chris Reed has taken some snaps with the first team in his place, but the hope is still that Bradbury can live up to his draft position.
There is still time for players to win either the right guard or center position battles. Getting this right will be essential in protecting Kirk Cousins and opening holes in the run game for Dalvin Cook. Hopefully, someone will step up and prove they can fill the roles this year.