Christian Darrisaw Compared to Elite Left Tackle
K. Joudry
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Vikings fans, by and large, are really optimistic about Christian Darrisaw. A 2021 first-round selection, Darrisaw performed admirably as a rookie, finishing the year as the 36th-best OT on PFF. He is better as a run blocker than a pass blocker, though the potential is there for him to become one of the game’s better LTs in all areas. Minnesota is thus enthusiastic about the tackle tandem that consists of the ascending Darrisaw and rock-solid Brian O’Neill.
A recent tweet from Albert Breer highlighted just how enthusiastic the coaches are about their sophomore LT. Breer insists that they view Darrisaw as having similarities to Trent Williams: “To the staff, shades of Trent Williams in his build/movement.” Obviously, Darrisaw has a long way to go before replicating Williams’ level of dominance, but it’s still a noteworthy comparison.
The info on the PFR page for Williams is impressive. He has played 11 seasons in the NFL. Last year, he was a first-team All Pro even though he was 33-years-old. He has been to the Pro Bowl 9 times.
For the past two seasons, he has ranked as the best offensive tackle in the entire NFL on PFF. Previously, he has finished first overall (in 2016 and 2013). Even when he isn’t top overall, he consistently puts forth really impressive grades. In other words, Williams has been an elite LT for over a long time.
Before heading to San Francisco, Williams was pursued by the Vikings. Unfortunately, the veteran didn’t want to play for Minnesota. Perhaps the one upside to him not wanting to join the team is that Rick Spielman went on to draft Christian Darrisaw, who is considerably younger and cheaper.
Darrisaw isn’t yet the player that Williams is, and it’ll be a massive win if he can mirror San Francisco’s elite OT. The fact that he’s getting those comparisons, though, illustrate the sophomore’s upside. He gets a tough test in Week 1; the Packers will send Rashan Gary and Preston Smith in his direction. Ideally, he can nullify one of Green Bay’s pass rushers without needing too much help from his teammates or play caller. If he can consistently do that, we’ll start to recognize him as being among the game’s best tackles.
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