Super early 22-man starter projections for the 2023 Vikings
By Adam Carlson
Starting Inside Linebackers
- Jordan Hicks – ILB
It was a bit surprising when Jordan Hicks reworked his contract to stay in Minnesota for one more season since fellow inside linbacker from last season, Eric Kendricks, was released due to a large salary cap hit.
Hicks had 129 combined tackles last season to go with ten pass defenses and three sacks. Although he struggled at times in a generous defensive scheme, the hope is that he will be a steadying force in the middle of the defense.
- Brian Asamoah – ILB
Brian Asamoash played in 16 games for the Minnesota Vikings last year but should be in line for his first career start this season. He did play 119 snaps on defense last year and will be ready for a bigger role.
A good combination of speed and athleticism will help the third round pick out of Oklahoma in 2022 win a starting role despite being a 23-year-old coming into his second NFL season whose primary experience is from special teams play.