Welcome to the beginning of our 2023 season preview content!
Over the next few weeks, we will be looking at each player on the roster in-depth with backgrounds and how they currently project forward on the Minnesota Vikings roster.
What is the best-case scenario? What is the worst-case scenario? What should we expect from them during the preseason and beyond? We will break all of that down here.
As a staff, all of us at Vikings Wire ranked the entire 90-man roster 1-90 and will be releasing player profiles in reverse order.
Background
Name: Sam Schlueter
Rank: 85
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 182 lbs
Experience: Rookie
College: Indiana
Stats (At Minnesota): 48 games, 152 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, 6 interceptions, 24 passes defended, 1 fumble recovery
Votes:
Tyler Forness: 84
Kevin Fielder: 84
Judd Zulgad: 84
Saivion Mixson: 84
Average: 84.00
Best case scenario
The cornerback position has some major question marks throughout. With the fifth and sixth cornerbacks seemingly in doubt, there will be a heavy competition. Williams skill set in playing man coverage gives him a chance. Preseason games will be a big factor in Williams making a splash, as reps in practice will be limited early.
Worst case scenario
With so many players vying for a backup cornerback job, it might be tough for Williams to stand out, especially with two other UDFAs and multiple veterans vying for those spots. Williams also has a history of injuries, having missed at least one game in each of his five college seasons. That could be a major hindrance to making an impression.
What to expect in 2023
There isn’t a lot to expect from Williams this year. He is currently 10th on the depth chart at the cornerback position, but has some skills that can be developed on a long-term basis. The likely scenario is Willimas becomes a fringe practice squad player.
Previous player profiles
90-Garett Maag
89-Jack Podlesny
88-Zach Ojile
87-NaJee Thompson
86-Thayer Thomas
85-Sam Schlueter
