The Minnesota Vikings released their initial 53-man roster on Tuesday, marking the first opportunity to see the players they plan to use this season.
Since trimming down the roster, the Vikings have also made a handful of signings to secure depth at different positions. Running back Myles Gaskin and offensive tackle David Quessenberry were among those signed.
Buy Vikings TicketsThe Vikings still have nine days to figure out the depth chart for the season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but predicting the opening depth chart is a way to figure out who might get the bulk of the team’s snaps at certain positions.
Quarterback
Starter: Kirk Cousins
Backups (in order): Nick Mullens; Jaren Hall
The quarterback room is self-explanatory. Kirk Cousins has been the team’s starter since 2018, and there’s no reason to switch now. Jaren Hall had an impressive preseason finale, but Nick Mullens has the experience and was better in the team’s first two exhibition games.
Backfield
Starters: Alexander Mattison (RB), C.J. Ham (FB)
Backups: Ty Chandler; Myles Gaskin; Kene Nwangwu (IR)
Kene Nwangwu was placed on injured reserve before the start of the season, but until that move is made official, we’ll count his spot. Ty Chandler impressed during preseason and likely found himself in an increased role in the offense, but the Vikings will still start Alexander Mattison. Keep an eye on this room, though, because things can change at the moment’s notice.
Wide Receiver
Starters: Justin Jefferson; Jordan Addison; K.J. Osborn (slot)
Backups: Brandon Powell; Jalen Nailor
There’s a chance that Jalen Nailor begins the season as the fourth wide receiver, but Brandon Powell impressed in training camp, which could give him a slight edge. Regardless, there are no surprises here.
Left Tackle
Starter: Christian Darrisaw
Backup: David Quessenberry
Christian Darrisaw is one of the best left tackles in football, so his job is safe. Past him, David Quessenberry’s signing makes him the likely backup.
Left Guard
Starter: Ezra Cleveland
Backup: Blake Brandel
Another spot along the offensive line that is self-explanatory and won’t require much of a breakdown.
Center
Starter: Garrett Bradbury
Backup: Austin Schlottmann
Austin Schlottmann beat out undrafted rookie Alan Ali for his starting spot, meaning he remains the backup center. Garrett Bradbury, as expected, also remains the starter.
Right Guard
Starter: Ed Ingram
Backup: Blake Brandel
It was up and down for Ed Ingram during his rookie season, but no backup will likely challenge him for this spot. Brandel, who was also listed as the backup left guard, should spend the season as the Vikings swing guard.
Right Tackle
Starter: Brian O’Neill
Backup: Oli Udoh
Kevin O’Connell has maintained continuity around the offensive line, meaning the right tackle position remains the same from last season.
