Minnesota saw Linval Joseph leave in free agency.
Michael Pierce was signed as a probable replacement, but the defensive tackle spot opposite to him is up in the air.
The incumbent starter, Shamar Stephen, returns, but he hasn’t been stellar in that spot. Vikings Wire recently listed the three-technique defensive tackle spot as a training camp battle to watch in 2020.
But what if the Vikings can’t find anyone suitable for that position this year? Draft Wire not only thinks that could happen, but that Minnesota takes an interior defensive lineman in the first round.
Our friends at Draft Wire tabbed Minnesota to take Pittsburgh’s Jaylen Twyman in a recent 2021 mock draft. Here’s what the outlet said about the pick:
“Michael Pierce should prove to be a fantastic addition to Minnesota’s defensive line, but they still have a hole at the opposing defensive tackle slot. The freakishly athletic and finesse-heavy Twyman would be a fantastic complement to the run-stuffing Pierce and could provide the Vikings with some pass-rushing value along the interior.”
Twyman’s pass-rushing prowess could be helpful for the Vikings defensive line. We’ll have to see if the three-technique defensive tackle spot is a need for the team down the road.