ESPN: Will Vikings start Caleb Banks, other rookies on defense?
The Vikings selected four defensive players in the top 100 picks of this spring's draft, a surge of resources that would seem to make the answer obvious. But in Minnesota, the 2026 class must navigate a complicated defensive scheme. It will also need to impress coordinator Brian Flores, who won't be influenced by résumé when making lineup decisions.
"I talk to our guys about it all the time," Flores said. "This is a unique system. It's a demanding system. We've got high standards, high expectations. For some people it's a lot. There's stress and anxiety, but what I want our guys to know is it's definitely an opportunity for growth. There's a lot of calls. There's a lot of techniques. A lot of fundamentals."
IDK, I think the Vikings have a tendency to start veterans and let rookies chip in and grow into their roles, but we're also pretty low on overall roster talent, so they might have to be thrown in there more than the coaches would like.
If Banks is healthy at the start of the season, he will start. Flores loves him.
My take is pretty consistent with others:
Big Citrus starts sooner than later
Banks gets a slower ramp-up as foot dictates
Golday is primarily ST's this season, unless misfortune strikes.
Your guess is as good (or better) than mine with the back 7 rooks. MAYBE the Miami S sees some time with the 1's this year, maybe. I think he's primarily STs with the LB.
Hurry-up Vikings, we ain't getting any younger!
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