The list of the best offensive tackles in Vikings franchise history is topped by a couple Hall of Famers. After that, it’s a bunch of solid football players. When their careers are done, the current tackles could challenge those at the top.
Top Ten Minnesota Vikings Tackles
1. Ron Yary
2. Gary Zimmerman
3. Grady Alderman
4. Todd Steussie
5. Brian O’Neill
6. Christian Darrisaw
7. Tim Irwin
8. Korey Stringer
9. Matt Kalil
10. Bryant McKinnie
Ron Yary was arguably the league’s best offensive tackle for the duration of his 14 years in Minnesota. He was All-Pro from 1971-76. He has a bust in Canton. Due to a Super Bowl title in his final season, some think of Gary Zimmerman more for his Denver Broncos days. His seven years in Minnesota were, by far, his best. He also has a bust in Canton. Grady Alderman is one of the most underrated players in Vikings history. He was the Vikings left tackle from 1961-74. He went to six Pro Bowls. His absence from the team’s Ring of Honor is a mystery. Todd Steussie was a very good offensive tackle. He was also dependable. He started all but one game in his seven seasons with the Vikings. He formed an excellent left side with guard Randall McDaniel. Brian O’Neill is the current right tackle. Christian Darrisaw is the current left tackle. The two arguably form the best tackle duo in Vikings franchise history. O’Neill will probably end his career right behind Zimmerman on this list. Darrisaw has Hall of Fame potential and could end his career challenging Yary. Tim Irwin was a solid, reliable tackle for over a decade. From 1983-93, he started every game. RIP Korey Stringer. His shocking death will always top his legacy but he was a very good football player. After his rookie season, it felt like Matt Kalil was on the verge of a career destined for a bust in Canton. He made the Pro Bowl in his first season but never returned. Nagging injuries kept him from reaching the potential he showed in that first season. Bryant McKinnie is probably the most frustrating player in all my years following the team. He had the talent to top this list. Unfortunately, he never showed the desire to do so. He finally made the Pro Bowl in his eighth season. He was kicked out of the game before it was even played. An indication of his ridiculous talents is that he was able to skate through 12 years in the NFL and look back on a respectable career. He could’ve been so much more.
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