Sports
Vikings Territory: National Punditry Still Low On Vikings 2021 Offensive Line
'Ezra Cleveland started at right guard down the stretch, and he'll slot in there again in 2021.'
July 21, 2021
The normal tendency at this time of the offseason for Minnesota Vikings fans is to cringe and hope on the upcoming outlook of the offensive line.
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General Manager Rick Spielman hasn’t ignored the problem, though. In every draft since 2018, he’s selected an offensive lineman in the 2nd Round or higher, signaling that he vividly understands the problem. This remedial strategy has welcomed the likes of Brian O’Neill, Garrett Bradbury, Ezra Cleveland, Christian Darrisaw, and Wyatt Davis to the team.
Indeed, Vikings faithful are high on the offensive trenches, chiefly because there is a plan. But the national masses have not recognized the Vikings roster strides.
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“The interior is where the Vikings have had their issues, especially in pass protection. Center Garrett Bradbury is a prime example — he’s been far better in the run game but ranked last and second to last in pass-blocking grade among centers in his two NFL seasons. Ezra Cleveland started at right guard down the stretch, and he’ll slot in there again in 2021. Cleveland profiled similarly to Bradbury, grading out at a solid 67.5 as a run blocker but just 52.0 in pass protection. The left guard spot has two options in Mason Cole and third-rounder Wyatt Davis. Cole has two full seasons under his belt, but both were at center. He earned grades of 53.6 in 2018 and 54.4 last year. Davis battled through injury in 2020 at Ohio State, but he looked like one of the best guard prospects in the draft after his 2019 performance. The Vikings’ offensive line has a new look this season, and the unit’s ability to move up the rankings may be dependent on two rookies and one second-year player.”
On the whole, Minnesota’s offensive line will be a barometer for the long-term prognosis of Zimmer. His employment began in Minnesota in 2014. Just once — the pass protection was decent. Wouldn’t you know it, that was the season the Vikings reached the NFC Championship.
This press release was produced by Vikings Territory. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
