Ranking Vikings rookies in terms of importance

Here are some Vikings rookies ranked in order of their importance for the 2020 NFL season.

DT James Lynch

Photo: Rod Aydelotte/Waco Tribune-Herald via AP, File

Despite being a fourth-round pick, Lynch is the next important rookie on this list.

Minnesota defensive tackle Michael Pierce opted out of the 2020 season, so now the nose tackle spot is very up in the air.

Lynch doesn’t play nose tackle, but he could be an enticing three-technique player if Shamar Stephen moves over to the nose. Lynch had 13.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss in 2019 for Baylor. His ability to translate his skills to the NFL could prove pivotal for the Vikings defense in 2020.