The Vikings taking Ezra Cleveland in the second round created some speculation over Minnesota’s offensive line.
The group returned both starting tackles from 2019: Riley Reiff and Brian O’Neill. While O’Neill is arguably the Vikings’ best offensive lineman, Reiff’s role appeared to be up in the air.
However, Minnesota offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak said that the team will stick with Reiff at tackle. Cleveland has been taking reps at guard this training camp.
The team has moved Pat Elflein to right guard and mostly given first-team reps at left guard to Dakota Dozier and Aviante Collins.
Where does that leave Cleveland? According to Mark Craig of the Star Tribune, likely not in a starting position.
Per Craig’s insights, Cleveland will essentially be redshirting as the third option at left guard. “No player’s ability to compete for a starting job was harmed more by all the COVID-19 restrictions,” Craig wrote in regards to Cleveland.
If that’s any indication, Vikings fans may have to wait in order to see how Cleveland can adjust to a big role in the NFL.
