As the NFL season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the start of the 2021 season. For the Minnesota Vikings, this means making tough decisions on who will make the final 53-man roster. However, doing a Vikings 53-man roster projection right now comes with a distinct downside: not being able to glean the insight and information that comes from preseason games and training camp.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still affecting the league, the Vikings, like all teams, have had to adjust their offseason plans. This has resulted in a shortened preseason and limited opportunities for players to showcase their skills and make a case for a spot on the roster. As a result, projecting the final 53-man roster for the Vikings is a challenging task, but one that we will attempt to do with optimism and positivity.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that the Vikings have a solid core of players returning from last season. This includes star quarterback Kirk Cousins, who had a career year in 2020, throwing for 4,265 yards and 35 touchdowns. He will be joined by a talented group of receivers, including Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson, who both had over 1,000 receiving yards last season.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Vikings have a strong group led by Pro Bowl safety Harrison Smith and linebacker Eric Kendricks. They also added some key pieces in the offseason, including defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson and cornerback Patrick Peterson, who bring experience and leadership to the team.
With these core players in place, let’s take a look at our projection for the Vikings’ 53-man roster.
Quarterbacks (3): Kirk Cousins, Kellen Mond, Jake Browning
As mentioned, Cousins is the clear starter for the Vikings and will be backed up by rookie Kellen Mond, who was drafted in the third round this year. Jake Browning, who has been with the team since 2019, will likely secure the third spot on the depth chart.
Running Backs (4): Dalvin Cook, Alexander Mattison, Ameer Abdullah, Kene Nwangwu
Dalvin Cook is one of the best running backs in the league and will continue to be the workhorse for the Vikings. Alexander Mattison will provide a solid backup option, while Ameer Abdullah and rookie Kene Nwangwu will contribute on special teams.
Wide Receivers (6): Adam Thielen, Justin Jefferson, Dede Westbrook, Chad Beebe, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Bisi Johnson
The top three receivers for the Vikings are set with Thielen, Jefferson, and newly signed Dede Westbrook. Chad Beebe, who has shown flashes of potential, will likely secure a spot on the roster. Rookie Ihmir Smith-Marsette and Bisi Johnson, who is returning from injury, will battle it out for the final spot.
Tight Ends (3): Irv Smith Jr., Tyler Conklin, Brandon Dillon
With the departure of Kyle Rudolph, Irv Smith Jr. will step into the starting role for the Vikings. Tyler Conklin, who has been with the team since 2018, will serve as the backup. Brandon Dillon, an undrafted free agent, has impressed in training camp and will secure the third spot.
Offensive Line (9): Brian O’Neill, Ezra Cleveland, Garrett Bradbury, Dakota Dozier, Rashod Hill, Mason Cole, Wyatt Davis, Oli Udoh, Blake Brandel
The Vikings have a solid starting offensive line, but depth is a concern. Brian O’Neill, Ezra Cleveland, and Garrett Bradbury are locked in as starters, while Dakota Dozier and Rashod Hill will likely secure the other two spots. Mason Cole, who was acquired in a trade with the Cardinals, will provide depth at center. Rookie Wyatt Davis, Oli Udoh, and Blake Brandel will battle it out for the remaining spots.
Defensive Line (9): Danielle Hunter, Dalvin Tomlinson, Michael Pierce, Everson Griffen, Stephen Weatherly, D.J. Wonnum, Sheldon Richardson, Armon Watts, Janarius Robinson
The Vikings have a formidable defensive line, led by Danielle Hunter, who is returning from injury. Dalvin Tomlinson and Michael Pierce will provide a strong interior presence, while Everson Griffen and Stephen Weatherly will rotate in at defensive end. D.J. Wonnum, Sheldon Richardson,
