NFL analyst suggests Minnesota Vikings take popular approach, but in a way that won’t help them in 2026
The Minnesota Vikings have issues on the offensive line over the last 15 years, but taking a player at the position as an insurance policy would be incredibly poor process.
When it comes to the Minnesota Vikings, there have been concerns with the offensive line for the last 15 years.
During the 2025 season, it was a major cause for concern. 33% of the snaps were taken by backup players on the offensive line, including both Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill missing a large amount of time.
That aspect has gotten a lot of discussion among fans and analysts. They did sign Ryan Van Demark to provide extra insurance, but some are calling for even more insurance.
Benjamin Solak recommends wild draft choice for Minnesota Vikings in round one
When should the Vikings end up taking an offensive tackle for more insurance with their two stout tackles? ESPN’s Benjamin Solak believes it would be an “excellent pick” to take an offensive tackle at 18th overall.
That clears the Vikings to go for “best player available” at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw‘s health and Brian O’Neill‘s contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.
ESPN's Benjamin Solak
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This would be quite the fascinating option for the Vikings. Every team would love to have a first-round pick at offensive tackle on their bench ready to go. However, it would be a waste of a pick.
If the Vikings were seriously concerned about Darrisaw’s knee, they would have found a way to not restructure his contract and push money into future years. Plus, they have a contract extension budget for with O’Neill.
With that said, why would it be smart for the Vikings to take an insurance policy at offensive tackle at 18th overall? Selecting a player you don’t have a plan to make a starter is a really poor process. You select players in the first round who can become serious contributors for you, which is why I’m low on Penn State Nittany Lions OG Vega Ioane for the Vikings. There isn’t a path toward him playing.
An offensive tackle in round one could easily end up being the same issue. Now, day two is a completely different situation, but a premium asset used solely as an insurance policy would be brutal.
