The Vikings ’offense thrived in 2020, but the team still had weaknesses in that unit.
For example, the team often struggled to protect the quarterback. The inside of Minnesota’s offensive line often gave up on pressure, forcing Kirk Cousins to make mistakes.
At least the Vikings have tried to slightly improve the offensive line this offseason. The team recently switched to Cardinals center Mason Cole. Minnesota only had to give up the sixth-round pick to get it.
It’s hard to say where each Viking offensive line offensive will go in 2021. But it doesn’t hurt to make an early prediction. Here’s an initial lineup that I think the team could follow next season:
Offensive attack by Vikings Ezra Cleveland. Photo: Benny Sieu / USA TODAY Sports
In this scenario, the Vikings move Cleveland to the left. Last season he started as a right-back, but could be ready to play outside. Cleveland played attacking college and, with Riley Reiff gone, it makes sense to put him here.
Former Cardinal Mason Cole Center. Photo: Syndication: Phoenix
Cole gets the initial head on the left guard. I think, right now, he’s one of the team’s best offensive liners. It fits what Minnesota is trying to do with its offensive line scheme. He could have an easier guard with the Vikings than as a center with the Cardinals.
Minnesota Vikings Center, Garrett Bradbury. Photo: Syndication: Wichita
Nothing too surprising here. I think Minnesota stays with Bradbury, a player who was inconsistent in 2020, but who also improved over the previous season. It’s still hired, so I think it’s an easy option.
Kyle Hinton, Minnesota Viking Guard. Photo: AP Photo
I don’t see Dru Samia making the right head start after 2020, but maybe he’s making great strides. If I had to pick someone from the Viking list right now to fill that gap, I would say it must be Hinton.
That said, the most likely scenario is for the team to get an initial guard in the NFL draft. I think this position will be in the air for quite some time, unless the team uses an initial selection of the round as a guard and the player adapts well to the league.
Minnesota Vikings offensive attack Brian O’Neill Photo: AP Photo / David Berding
Similar to Bradbury’s central location, this is also a fairly easy option. O’Neill is arguably the Vikings’ best offensive lineman. I think the team should keep him on the right in 2021. Moving him to the left runs the risk of him not being as good. O’Neill, who is on the left, also increases his value in free agency.