This offseason, the Minnesota Vikings focused on strengthening their trenches. General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah had ample cap space after opting not to re-sign Sam Darnold to a hefty deal. This decision gave the Vikings the flexibility to target talent for both the offensive and defensive lines.
Minnesota quickly addressed weaknesses on both sides of the ball, adding talent to the secondary as well. While they made significant moves early, there is still work to be done to build depth.
Christian Darrisaw, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions, is expected to return. However, that didn’t stop the Vikings from looking to improve their tackle positions.
To fill the backup tackle spot left by David Quessenberry—who hit free agency—the Vikings signed Justin Skule.
Skule, like Quessenberry, was a former sixth-round pick. The 28-year-old spent the past three seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after being drafted by the San Francisco 49ers. He started 12 games in his first two seasons but played more of a rotational role in his second stop.
Last year with the Buccaneers, Skule made five starts and played in all 17 games, contributing 32% of offensive snaps in a backup role and 88 snaps on special teams.
The Vikings hope that the starting tackle duo of Brian O’Neill and the newly extended Christian Darrisaw will make Skule unnecessary, but in reality, he is expected to contribute and provide depth when needed.
Minnesota’s offensive line overhaul also focused on the guard position, where they signed veteran Will Fries. They have traded Ed Ingram and plan to move on from center Garrett Bradbury. Ryan Kelly will now take over as the starting center, while O’Neill and Darrisaw remain as the key tackles.
Blake Brandel is likely to hold on to his left guard position from last season unless a rookie outshines him. 2024 draft pick Walter Rouse could factor in, and Skule adds another depth option to the line.
The Vikings clearly recognize the importance of building up front and are making the necessary moves to strengthen both their offensive and defensive lines. With new additions like Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, Minnesota is showing commitment to improving their interior defense as well.
With these upgrades, head coach Kevin O’Connell is poised to make the most of his offense, especially with the added support up front to help put quarterback J.J. McCarthy in a position to succeed.
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