This run through the Minnesota Vikings roster continues. Next up: The Linebackers
The Minnesota Vikings switch to a 3-4 is going to be interesting. One of the changes is a decrease in the number of off-the-ball linebackers on the roster. To stock a 4-3 defense, the Vikings kept as many as six or sever linebackers. To stock this new 3-4 defense, the Vikings may keep as few as four.
Minnesota Vikings Roster: The Linebackers
Eric Kendricks
Jordan Hicks
Brian Asamoah
Troy Dye
Blake Lynch
Chazz Surratt
William Kwenkeu
Eric Kendricks and Jordan Hicks are the unquestioned starters. They’ll form a heady, steady, athletic, veteran, and very good duo. The two are the Vikings linebacker present. Brian Asamoah is the Vikings linebacker future. He has emerged as one of my favorites in the Vikings 2022 Draft Class. I believe that he’ll play his way on to the field as a rookie. Troy Dye and Chazz Surratt are recent mid-round picks. Blake Lynch worked his way from undrafted to contributing role player. William Kwenkeu is an undrafted rookie.
I’m going to miss seeing Eric Kendricks and Anthony Barr lined up together.
Top Competition:
Troy Dye vs. Chazz Surratt vs. Blake Lynch. If the Vikings keep four linebackers, it’s a three-way competition for one spot. If the Vikings keep five linebackers, it’s a three-way competition for two spots.
Could Surprise:
Chazz Surratt. If he emerged from the competition with Dye and Lynch, it would be a surprise. His rookie season was a wash so he’s an unknown. He’s been a curiosity since the Vikings selected him in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He started his North Carolina college career as a quarterback. He played linebacker his final two seasons. He played the position well enough to be drafted in the third round. It’s a remarkable transition. I just feel like Surratt has something that we’ve yet to see.
In most 53-man Vikings roster projections, I’ve tried to fit five linebackers. Special teams might open the door for five. For this, I’m looking at four linebackers.
Eric Kendricks
Jordan Hicks
Brian Asamoah
Troy Dye
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