Pre-Training Camp 2023 Vikings Roster Projection: Defense
The Minnesota Vikings kick off training camp on July 23rd, with rookies officially reporting to Eagan on that day while veterans check in two days later on July 25th. With camp now under three weeks away, here is the pre-training camp 2023 Vikings roster projection for the defense. An asterisk next to a player’s name indicates that they are projected to be a starter for Week 1.
Defensive Line (6)
- Harrison Phillips*
- Khyiris Tonga*
- Dean Lowry*
- Jonathan Bullard
- Jaquelin Roy
- Esezi Otomewo
- Cuts: James Lynch, Ross Blacklock, Junior Aho, Sheldon Day, T.J. Smith, Calvin Avery
Unless Khyiris Tonga is a major disappointment this summer compared to his conclusion of the 2022 season, the defensive line starters seem rather cut and dry at this point. However, things could go a number of different directions with the depth. If Minnesota wants to make sure they have more run-stoppers on their roster, though, it makes sense for Bullard to make the cut over Blacklock or Lynch.
Outside Linebacker (5)
- Danielle Hunter*
- Marcus Davenport*
- Patrick Jones
- Luiji Vilain
- Andre Carter
- Cuts: D.J. Wonnum, Benton Whitley, Curtis Weaver
Obviously, this group can change depending on what happens with Danielle Hunter over the next few weeks. If the Vikings are unable to come to an agreement on a new contract with the pass-rusher, he may be the latest veteran on the trade block for Minnesota. For now, though, consider him the top starter with D.J. Wonnum as a cut to make room for younger players.
Inside Linebacker (4)
- Jordan Hicks*
- Brian Asamoah*
- William Kwenkeu
- Ivan Pace
- Cuts: Troy Dye, Troy Reeder, Abraham Beauplan, Wilson Huber
There is nothing a Brian Flores defense likes more than young, aggressive linebackers. That rings true during this upcoming training camp as well with Minnesota making room for both William Kwenkeu and Ivan Pace rather than Troy Dye and Troy Reeder.
Cornerback (6)
- Byron Murphy*
- Akayleb Evans*
- Andrew Booth
- Joejuan Williams
- Mekhi Blackmon
- Tay Gowan
- Cuts: Kalon Barnes, C.J. Coldon, NaJee Thompson, Jaylin Williams
Minnesota’s biggest question marks exist at the cornerback position right now, but for now, Akayleb Evans seems most prepared to take over a starting role alongside Byron Murphy. Meanwhile, Andrew Booth will have to prove that he can handle duties in the slot after being almost solely a boundary CB throughout his career at Clemson. Otherwise, rookie Mekhi Blackmon could be nipping at his heels for playing time.
Safety (4)
- Harrison Smith*
- Lewis Cine*
- Josh Metellus
- Jay Ward
- Cuts: Cam Bynum, Theo Jackson
As long as he is fully healthy, Lewis Cine’s speed and versatility in the defensive backfield should give him a great chance at earning a starting role in his second NFL season. Meanwhile, Josh Metellus certainly deserves a roster spot, and Jay Ward can fill in cracks defensively wherever he’s needed. This marks the end of Cam Bynum’s tenure in Minnesota.
Special Teams (3)
- K Greg Joseph*
- P Ryan Wright*
- LS Andrew DePaola*
- Cuts: Jack Podlesny
We’re going to tack on the special teams at the end here to fully round out the Vikings roster projection. There is a bit of a kicking battle right now that should absolutely be taken seriously, but in the theme of continuity from 2022 to 2023, Greg Joseph remains the kicker for the Vikings this season.
Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys running, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.