This offseason, the Minnesota Vikings have focused on strengthening their offensive and defensive lines. With ample cap space available after deciding not to re-sign Sam Darnold to a costly contract, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah had the flexibility to target talent in the trenches.
Minnesota quickly addressed weaknesses on the interior of both lines while also bolstering their secondary. Despite an aggressive start to free agency, there is still work to be done in terms of depth.
Christian Darrisaw suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions. Although he is expected to return, the Vikings were not entirely satisfied with their current tackle situation.
Minnesota quickly addressed weaknesses on the interior of both lines while also bolstering their secondary. Despite an aggressive start to free agency, there is still work to be done in terms of depth.
Christian Darrisaw suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions. Although he is expected to return, the Vikings were not entirely satisfied with their current tackle situation.
Justin Skule takes on backup tackle spot for Minnesota Vikings
Kevin O’Connell had an absolute boatload of free agents hitting the open market from his 2024 roster. Among them was backup tackle David Quessenberry. No one wanted the former sixth round pick to work in a starting role, but his depth had to be replaced. Enter Justin Skule.
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Similar to Quessenberry, Skule was selected in the sixth round of the draft. The 28-year-old began his career with the San Francisco 49ers before spending the past three seasons with Tampa Bay. He started 12 games in his first two years but later transitioned into more of a rotational role with his second team.
During the previous season with the Buccaneers, Skule started five games and appeared in all 17, playing 32% of the offensive snaps as a backup while also adding 88 snaps on special teams.
Minnesota hopes that the duo of Brian O’Neill and the newly extended Christian Darrisaw will make Skule’s role unnecessary. However, the reality is that he will likely see playing time to support one or both at some point.
Minnesota Vikings offensive line overhaul continues
Minnesota made the guard position a priority this offseason, addressing it by signing veteran Will Fries. They have also traded Ed Ingram and are parting ways with center Garrett Bradbury. Ryan Kelly will step in as the new starting center, while the team retains its two talented tackles.
Blake Brandel is expected to maintain his role at left guard unless a rookie earns the spot. 2024 draft pick Walter Rouse could also factor into the mix, and Justin Skule adds valuable depth to the unit.
The Vikings recognize the importance of building a strong foundation in the trenches and have taken significant steps to reinforce both sides of the ball. The additions of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave bolster the interior defensive line, further demonstrating their commitment to the front.
With these improvements, Kevin O’Connell is prepared to launch the J.J. McCarthy era, and the strengthened offensive line should help set him up for success.
