The Vikings’ attack flourished in 2020, but the team had still revealed weaknesses in that unit.
For example, the team often struggled to protect the quarterback. The interior of the Minnesota attack line often gave up pressure, forcing Kirk Cousins to make mistakes.
In any case, the Vikings have tried to slightly upgrade the attack line in this low season. The team recently traded for Cardinals center Mason Cole. Minnesota only had to give up a sixth-round pick to get him.
It’s hard to say where every Vikings’ attacking lineman will end up in 2021. But it doesn’t hurt to make an early prediction. Here’s a starting lineup that I think the team could go to next season:
Attacking Vikings take on Ezra Cleveland. Photo: Benny Sieu / USA TODAY Sports
In this scenario, the Vikings move Cleveland to the left to tackle. He started with the right guard last season, but could be ready to play on the outside. Cleveland played tackle in college and now that Riley Reiff is gone, it makes sense to lock him in here.
Former Mason Cole Cardinals Center. Photo: Syndication: Phoenix
Cole gets the start nod at the left guard. I think he’s one of the best offensive linemen on the team from now on. He fits with what Minnesota is trying to do with its offensive line plan. He might have an easier time as a guard with the Vikings than as a center with the cardinals.
Minnesota Vikings center Garrett Bradbury. Photo: Syndication: Wichita
Nothing special here. I think Minnesota will stick with Bradbury, a player who was inconsistent in 2020 but also improved from the previous season. He’s still on a contract so I think this is an easy choice.
Minnesota Vikings guard Kyle Hinton. Photo: AP Photo
I don’t see Dru Samia getting the nod at the right guard after 2020, but he might be making big strides. Currently, if I had to pick someone from the Vikings roster to fill this void, I’d say it has to be Hinton.
That said, the most likely scenario is for the team to land a starting guard in the NFL draft. I think this position will stay in the air for quite some time, unless the team picks an early round for a guard and that player adjusts well to the competition.
Offensive tackle Minnesota Vikings Brian O’Neill Photo: AP Photo / David Berding
As with Bradbury’s centerpiece, this is also a fairly easy choice. O’Neill is arguably the Vikings’ best offensive lineman. I think the team should keep him on the right tackle in 2021. By moving it to the left, you run the risk of not being very good. O’Neill on the left also increases his value in free agency.