Vikings suffer blow to the defensive line with latest injury

The Vikings have not had the best start to camp when it comes to injuries.  On Tuesday, the team saw receiver Trishton Jackson go down with seemingly a serious injury. Starting RB Alexander Mattison was seen limping, and CB Andrew Booth Jr. left early as well.  On Friday, the team learned that another depth piece […]

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The Vikings have not had the best start to camp when it comes to injuries. 

On Tuesday, the team saw receiver Trishton Jackson go down with seemingly a serious injury. Starting RB Alexander Mattison was seen limping, and CB Andrew Booth Jr. left early as well. 

On Friday, the team learned that another depth piece will likely be done for the season.

Fourth-year defensive tackle James Lynch suffered a torn ACL in practice on Thursday and will receive season-ending surgery, per Tom Pelissero.

Dean Lowry, Khyiris Tonga, and Harrison Phillips are likely to be the starters on the defensive line, but Lynch could have solidified a key depth role. 

Lynch was competing with the likes of Jonathan Bullard, Esezi Otomewo, Ross Blacklock, Junior Aho, Sheldon Day, Calvin Avery, and TJ Smith. 

Unfortunately for Lynch, his rookie contract expires after this season meaning the lineman will not collect new tape to show potential suitors next March. 

In each of his three seasons in Minnesota, Lynch's role increased. As a rookie, the lineman played in just nine games and collected three tackles and one sack. In his sophomore campaign, Lynch collected 30 tackles and one sack, while getting his first NFL start. 

In 2022, Lynch played in 15 games, starting two, and finished with 20 tackles and one tackle for loss. 

With Lynch no longer a factor, it will be interesting to see who steps up in his place. The three starters as well as the rookie Jaquelin Roy are locks, but there are still a couple roster spots available for the taking.