The Minnesota Vikings are firmly entrenched in OTAs and are progressing toward training camp at TCO Performance Center. This will be the third season under head coach Kevin O'Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and it's also a turning point in the future of the organization.
To prepare for the pivotal 2024 season, we will break down each player on the 90-man roster leading up to training camp. In this series, we will look into their background, scheme fit, best and worst case scenario along with what to expect from each player. It will also help gain more insight on each player going into the year, especially with players who haven't gotten much fanfare.
Can Doug Nester make the Vikings' roster as a swing player?
Background
Nester played college football at Virginia Tech for two seasons before moving to West Virginia. In his first four seasons, Nester played right guard and kicked out to right tackle for his final season in 2023. What was impressive about his move to tackle is that Nester didn't allow a single sack and helped the Mountaineers lead the Power 5 in rushing. They were also the only Big 12 school with more than 2,000 yards rushing in the conference. During his career, Nester played
Scheme fit
Nester played in a mostly zone-rushing offense at West Virginia but isn't a stranger to gap scheme concepts either. He can do a little bit of everything and being able to both play tackle and guard is important.
Best case scenario
Nester has the flexibility to play both at tackle and guard. The depth of the Vikings' offensive line isn't set in stone, which could open up the opportunity for Nester. With eight players on the offensive line being either rookie or second year players, it could be easy to stand out.
Worst case scenario
Just like competing against the other seven rookie or second-year players could be a benefit, it could also be a struggle. It could end up being a case where Nester isn't able to stand out among his peers, which could keep him from earning a roster spot.
What to expect in 2024
Nester has an interesting profile to consider. His sheer amount of snaps could end up giving him an advantage over his competition, as experience plays really well with depth offensive linemen. However, Nester might not have the required athleticism and skill to be able to climb to the next level and take on linebackers.
Overall, the Vikings do believe in Nester with a $10k signing bonus and $75k in guaranteed salary. Nester feels like the guy who will be the final cut from the offensive line and end up on the practice squad for 2024.
Previous player profiles
Devron Harper | Ty James | Trey Knox | Gabriel Murphy | Dwight McGlothern | Dallas Gant
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