Another UDFA Could Reportedly Sneak onto Minnesota Vikings’ Final Roster
The Minnesota Vikings have just a single preseason came left on their exhibition schedule. Things then quickly transition over to games that matter. The roster must be finalized before that happens, and there are sure to be some interesting outcomes. An UDFA grabbing a key spot might be among them.
Minnesota Vikings have had luck with UDFA
Of course the goal for any organization is to nail each draft pick during any given cycle. The Minnesota Vikings have scuffled a bit in that regard with Kwesi Adofo-Mensah as the general manager. They have found some nice diamonds in the rough when grabbing undrafted free agents though. The Athletic’s Alec Lewis thinks another could squeak onto the roster.
“Last year, fifth-round pick Jaquelin Roy occupied the backup nose tackle spot behind Harrison Phillips. Roy is in the mix again this year, and it’s always possible Flores tries to cover his bases at the spot with versatility. That said, if the Vikings opt for a more creative route, they could keep a player like Taimani who has been stout against the run throughout the preseason. He arrived as an undrafted signee from Oregon, but Flores often says draft position doesn’t matter once a player enters the building. Taimani could be a sneaky 53-man option.“
Alec Lewis on the possibility of Taki Taimani making the Vikings roster (The Athletic)
Taimani transferred to Oregon after four years with the Washington Huskies. The former Ducks defensive lineman stuffed the middle in a big way last season. With 22 tackles, Taimani also recorded 1.5 behind the line of scrimmage. Minnesota needs answers in the middle of the defensive line, and the preseason standout could provide one.
The Vikings would need to opt against keeping their 2023 fifth rounder to roster Taimani, but it’s a possibility. Landing a roster spot in the wake of former Ducks teammate Khyree Jackson’s tragedy would be a heartwarming occurence.
Interior line remains a question for Brian Flores
If you were to bet on the Minnesota Vikings first round pick in 2025 right now, throwing all the money on an interior defensive lineman makes sense. Brian Flores still doesn’t have a great answer at the position. That’s certainly a spot for the defense to improve.
Harrison Phillips will start their for Minnesota, but there is room for others to step up. It remains to be seen if Taimani can force his way onto the roster. Whoever operates in the back-up role can push for additional playing time by being a consistent force.
The Minnesota Vikings defense took strides forward in their first season under Flores. Seeing that continue, and be expanded upon in year two, is a must. Sam Darnold and the offense will need to find their groove, but they can’t constantly be chasing deficits.
