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With training camp quickly approaching, the Minnesota Vikings prepare for a big year in 2021. They missed the playoffs last season, as the team was hit by the injury bug. However, with Aaron Rodgers feuding with the Green Bay Packers, the NFC North might be wide open for the taking. The Vikings should feel confident, as they have a solid roster to win the division.
Even so, the Vikings will have to cut their roster size down to 53 players before the start of the season. The starting lineup is rather stacked throughout, which means everyone else will be fighting for depth roles on the team.
The Vikings roster bubble should be interesting to pay attention to, as multiple players are in danger of being cut. However, three stand out as early cut candidates due to the depth in their respective positions. With that said, here are three cut candidates on the Vikings' roster bubble entering 2021 training camp.
Olabisi Johnson
Outside of Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen, the Vikings receiver group is underwhelming. However, the front office brought in four rookies who will compete for playing time. The third receiver role is up for grabs, as the Vikings hope to have an additional weapon in the passing game.
Olabisi Johnson played that role last season and was unimpressive, to say the least. With a ton of competition at the receiver position this offseason, Johnson has his work cut out for him to make the final roster.
Ameer Abdullah
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Many believed Ameer Abdullah was going to be a viable running back during his time with the Detroit Lions. Instead, Abdullah has struggled in the NFL and now finds himself as the odd man out in Minnesota. The top two spots in the backfield are locked down by Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison, so Abdullah will have to fight for the third running back spot on the roster.
The front office brought in Kene Nwangwu, who has already turned some heads in minicamp. It'll be interesting to see how that position battle plays out, as it's a classic veteran versus rookie situation. The coaching staff will keep the more exciting rusher, which gives Nwangwu a slight advantage over Abdullah.
Dru Samia
The Vikings look to have the best offensive line possible for the 2021 season. There might be a few guys cut in that position group, but the most likely is Dru Samia. He had a chance to prove himself last year but struggled when his number was called. After allowing 14 pressures and three sacks, Samia could find himself heading out of the door in training camp.
He's currently listed as the backup, but he's not guaranteed that spot by any means. He'll be competing with three other guards, so Samia will have to ball out during training camp to keep his spot on the roster. We'll see how it plays out, but the Vikings are likely to go with someone they feel is more consistent. The offensive line is important for the Vikings' success, as they must protect Kirk Cousins and open run lanes for Dalvin Cook.
