The Minnesota Vikings made some major changes this offseason. None were bigger than their decision to move on from quarterback Kirk Cousins, allowing him to leave in free agency. He signed a massive contract with the Atlanta Falcons, creating a huge void under center.
In free agency, the Vikings did sign Sam Darnold. For a few weeks, it looked as if he could be their starter in 2024. But, that is no longer the case. Minnesota moved up one spot in the 2024 NFL Draft to select Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
McCarthy could find his way into the lineup in Week 1. The Vikings are a fortunate landing spot for any young quarterback given the supporting cast in place. Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, 2023 first-round pick Jordan Addison and tight end T.J. Hockenson are one of the best pass-catching trios in the NFL.
However, for a young quarterback to succeed early in his career, he needs to be protected. There are some questions about the Vikings’ offensive line, which could use some reinforcements still this offseason.
That is why Tyler Forness of The Sporting News has pitched them making a trade with the New York Giants. Forness named Evan Neal as someone the Vikings could look to acquire as a buy-low candidate to address their offensive line needs.
“Neal was looked to be a future tackle at the NFL level. Unfortunately, his size has been a major deterrent in his growth. He has a tendency to lean and that causes him to get beat and lose play strength. Neal played both tackle spots and guard at Alabama, as they continue to try and get their best offensive lineman on the field regardless of position. That has also hindered his development.
The idea behind acquiring Neal is to both potentially get a guard right now and develop him at tackle behind the scenes to give the Vikings some versatility in their offensive line. You could argue that Neal would still be an upgrade over Blake Brandel at left guard even at his current level of play,” Forness wrote.
While the idea makes sense, this isn’t a deal that is likely attainable for the Vikings. The Giants have shown no indication they are ready to throw in the towel on Neal and trade him, let alone even move him from right tackle.
All signs are pointing toward them keeping him as the bookend for Andrew Thomas and hoping a new offensive line coach can get him back on track. After that, a move inside could be considered, but trading him away doesn’t seem to be part of Big Blue’s plans currently. That leaves the Vikings having to look elsewhere for offensive line help.
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