Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer made it clear following the 2015 season that the Vikings would be looking to upgrade their offense line next season, as they struggled to protect quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
Minnesota is reportedly unlikely to keep both starting tackles Matt Kalil and Phil Loadholt this offseason, and it wouldn't be a surprise if the organization looked to target an offensive tackle in the first round. The move could make sense, as they could save salary cap room by releasing either offensive tackles Kalil or Loadholt and potentially select one of the top offensive tackles in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Many have projected the Vikings to select a wide receiver in the first round, and while the move makes sense, the Vikings should also look to target a potential cornerstone offensive tackle in the first round, if available. Two names that Vikings fans should keep an eye on are Michigan State offensive tackle Jack Conklin and Ohio State offensive tackle Taylor Decker.
Both are considered top-five prospects at the position, and they would give Minnesota a starting offensive tackle at a cheaper price and leave them more room to make moves in free agency should they cut either Kalil or Loadholt. Both Decker and Conklin are projected as first round offensive tackles, and if either somehow slips to Minnesota with the 23rd pick, they should pounce on the opportunity.
Conklin is less likely to be on the board, as he is considered a slightly better prospected than Decker and has drawn a comparison with former Pro Bowl offensive tackle Jon Runyan. While Conklin is unlikely to still be on the board for Minnesota, Decker has a chance to slide to the 23rd pick given the plethora of talent in the defensive side of the ball in this year's draft class.
Decker has drawn a comparison with New England Patriots offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer, and one AFC scout said that he believes he will be a long-time starting right tackle in the NFL for years. The Vikings should select Decker if he slides to them in the draft, as he could provide a cornerstone piece for the franchise and help create a strong pocket for Minnesota's quarterback as he heads into his third season.
The Vikings had the NFL's leading rusher with Adrian Peterson last season, but they are focused on pass protection in 2016 and are looking to keep their young franchise quarterback upright. It's unknown if either offensive tackle will slide to the Vikings, but if either is available when they are on the clock, don't be surprised if Minnesota selects an offensive tackle.
