The Minnesota Vikings have had a busy offseason, and one of their main focuses has been on improving their offensive line. With the additions of Will Fries and Ryan Kelly, the Vikings are looking to solidify their front line and protect their star quarterback, Kirk Cousins.
The offensive line is often an overlooked position on a football team, but it is crucial for a successful offense. It is the foundation that allows the quarterback to make plays and the running backs to find holes to run through. The Vikings know this all too well, and that is why they have made it a priority to tend to their offensive line this offseason.
First, let’s talk about Will Fries. The Vikings drafted Fries in the seventh round of this year’s draft, and he has already impressed in training camp. Standing at 6’6” and weighing 309 pounds, Fries brings size and strength to the offensive line. He was a standout at Penn State, starting 42 games during his college career. Fries is known for his versatility, as he has experience playing both guard and tackle positions. This will be valuable for the Vikings, as they can use him in multiple positions if needed. Fries has already been praised by his coaches for his work ethic and determination, and it’s clear that he has the potential to be a key player on the offensive line for years to come.
Another important addition to the Vikings’ offensive line is Ryan Kelly. The veteran center was acquired in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts, and he brings a wealth of experience to the team. Kelly was a first-round pick in the 2016 draft and has been a consistent starter for the Colts since then. He was also named to the Pro Bowl in 2019, showcasing his talent and ability on the field. Kelly is known for his intelligence and leadership, which will be valuable for the young offensive line of the Vikings. He will not only be responsible for protecting Cousins but also for calling out plays and making adjustments at the line of scrimmage. Kelly’s presence on the offensive line will be a huge asset to the Vikings’ offense.
The addition of Fries and Kelly shows the Vikings’ commitment to improving their offensive line. It’s clear that they want to give Cousins the best protection possible and give their running backs the opportunity to make big plays. It’s also a sign that the Vikings are serious about contending for a Super Bowl this season. With a strong and solid offensive line, the Vikings’ offense will have the opportunity to thrive and lead the team to victory.
But it’s not just the new additions that make the Vikings’ offensive line a force to be reckoned with. They also have some talented returning players who will continue to play a significant role in the team’s success. Players like Brian O’Neill, Ezra Cleveland, and Garrett Bradbury have all shown promise in their previous seasons and are expected to continue to improve and contribute this year. With the new additions and the returning players, the Vikings’ offensive line has the potential to be one of the best in the league.
It’s worth mentioning that the Vikings have also made some changes in their coaching staff, specifically on the offensive line. They have brought in new offensive line coach, Phil Rauscher, who has already made a positive impact on the team. Rauscher is known for his attention to detail and ability to develop players, which bodes well for the Vikings’ offensive line. He will work closely with the players to improve their technique and chemistry, ultimately making them a more cohesive unit on the field.
In conclusion, the Minnesota Vikings have made significant moves to improve their offensive line this offseason. The additions of Will Fries and Ryan Kelly, along with the returning players and a new coaching staff, have the potential to transform the Vikings’ offensive line into one of the best in the league. This is great news for Vikings fans and for the team’s chances of contending for a Super Bowl. With a solid offensive line, the Vikings’ offense will have the opportunity to shine, and we can’t wait to see what they will achieve on the field this season. Skol Vikings!
