Many expect the Vikings’ offensive line to improve in 2021, on account of who they added through the NFL draft. But that’s not a given.
Minnesota needs first-round pick Christian Darrisaw to come in and not only start right away, but thrive. Darrisaw is replacing Riley Reiff, a left tackle who only gave up one sack in 2020.
For that, Darrisaw makes it as the team’s X-factor, according to Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report. Gagnon wrote:
“Considering that Cousins, running back Dalvin Cook and wideout Adam Thielen are expensive and in win-now mode, Darrisaw faces a huge responsibility as the presumed Week 1 starter at left tackle in Minnesota. The Vikings can’t afford to wait out growing pains for long, but they also lack quality alternatives besides regular starting right tackle Brian O’Neill.
The good news is Darrisaw is a physical marvel who should be NFL-ready as a three-year starter at left tackle in college. The bad news is he’s already missed some time with a groin injury.”
Darrisaw’s collegiate career is impressive. Now, he has to put it together and adjust to the NFL. It’s a relatively safe bet that the Vikings will be better on the interior this year. Will they be better on the exterior? It comes down to Darrisaw.
