3 Vikings players winning their position battles in 2022 camp
By Dean Jones
Armon Watts – 3-4 DE
Switching to a 3-4 base defense is one of the more interesting storylines to watch in 2022. Ed Donatell certainly has the personnel to make this move pay off in a big way, although the Minnesota Vikings will be praying their top guys don’t succumb to injuries at any stage.
One potential question mark heading into training camp was the left defensive end position. Harrison Phillips and Dalvin Tomlinson should perform to the level expected, but the defensive line will only be as good as their weak link when push comes to shove.
At least from multiple reports from those in attendance, it appears as if Armon Watts is doing more than enough to win the job. Hopes remain high that Jaylen Twyman can make a difference over time, but missing his entire rookie season due to gunshot wounds means the jury is still out in that regard.
Watts has been solid on the rotation since joining the Vikings. The former Arkansas stud gained five sacks and 10 quarterback hits from nine starts in 2021, so there could be even more to come with extra responsibilities moving forward.
This represents a good opportunity for Watts. He should also get plenty of space to work with the abundance of talent operating alongside him on the front seven.
The former sixth-round pick is also playing in the final year of his deal. So there is a lot of incentive to put up the numbers needed for an extension next spring.