Vikings Show Confidence In Young Guards With the Release Of Jones

Deshawn |

Sep 3, 2019

Minnesota Vikings' Brett Jones (61) practices at the NFL football teams practice facility in Eagen, Minn., Monday, Aug. 27, 2018. Vikings center Pat Elflein was held out of the entire preseason while rehabbing from ankle and shoulder surgeries, putting his availability for the opener in doubt. If he's not cleared to play, either Brett Jones or Danny Isidora would snap the ball to Kirk Cousins. (Brian Peterson/Star Tribune via AP)

The Vikings completed the signing of former Redskinswide receiver Josh Doctson by releasing backup center Brett Jones. The move is quite a head scratcher for most fans , considering the interior offensive line was the weakest part of the team coming into the 2019 season.

Jones has experience at both guard and center, but wasn’t in the greatest fit for the Vikings new scheme as he struggled to pull and get to the second level. Despite those facts, he had a terrific preseason and looked like a lock for the 53-man roster. He also earned a PFF grade over ninety for his performances.

It’s no secret that starting left guard Pat Elflein somewhat struggled in the preseason, so a move like this suggest the Vikings are pleased with their depth. This means backup guards Dakota Dozier and Dru Samia are ready to have their number called if needed . Dozier showed flexibility to play both guard and tackle, and Samia showed growth throughout each and every preseason game.

All eyes will be on the Vikings’ offensive line this coming Sunday as the team gears up to face Pro Bowl DT Grady Jarrett and the Atlanta Falcons in the regular season opener.