Don’t Overlook The Importance of Vikings Edge Rusher Competition
K. Joudry
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Much of the focus during the early moments of Vikings OTAs has been on positions other than edge rusher.
Indeed, we’ve heard good things about Kellen Mond and how the Vikings now have an abnormally large TV as part of their practice. Irv Smith Jr. is heading for a breakout and the rookies aren’t guaranteed starting positions. Absent in much of this discussion is a consideration of the outside linebackers, a vitally important position in Ed Donatell’s defense.
A large part of the reason for the relatively small amount of focus rests in near-guarantee of the top 2. Unless there is an injury – even typing those words make me nervous – Za’Darius Smith and Danielle Hunter will form a gruesome twosome. They have the potential to be among the best pass rushing duos in the NFL.
Beyond those two, though, we have a fair bit of uncertainty. Who will be first off the bench to give the starters a rest?
UDFA Luiji Vilain has gotten a fair bit of hype, though it’d be shocking to see him as a Day 1 contributor. In the fifth round, the Vikings opted for Esezi Otomewo, but he’ll likely play along the iDL rather than as an edge rusher. The Vikings, then, will likely be turning to a group of mid-rounders chosen over the past few years: D.J. Wonnum, Patrick Jones II, Janarius Robinson, and Kenny Willekes (who was taken in the 7th).
The frontrunner for the 3rd edge rusher spot is likely Wonnum, who put forth 8 sacks for the Vikings last season. Sacks, of course, aren’t the only measure of a player’s effectiveness. If he shows he can set the edge in the run game, Wonnum will find a role with this team.
Collectively, Jones, Robinson, and Willekes are a bit more of a wild card since we’ve seen less of them (especially given Robinson’s season-ending injury last year). The hope is obviously that at least one will really emerge, giving Minnesota the benefit of being 3 or 4 deep at OLB.
Keep an eye on how things progress for the Vikings at edge rusher. Having strong depth is an underrated, crucial part of succeeding through a long, difficult season.
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