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.
Will Tyler Manoa impress enough to make the Vikings' 53-man roster?
Background
Manoa was a four-star recruit who committed to UCLA. He spent five seasons and played in 41 games with the Bruins from 2018-2022 before finishing off his career at Arizona. Once he got to Tuscon, Manoa played in 13 games with 12 starts. During his time with the Wildcats, Manoa was a versatile player and finished with 28 tackles and one sack with a recovered fumble and pass deflection.
Scheme fit
Manoa is a versatile defensive lineman having lined up everywhere for the Wildcats in 2023. Most of his snaps were at 3-tech or 4i, which is something that will fit in well for how the Vikings structure their defensive fronts. His versatility stands out, which is a focus for Brian Flores.
Best case scenario
With his versatility, Manoa is able to thrive in multiple spots early and often. Even though he's a UDFA, he outshines draft picks Levi Drake Rodriguez and Jaquelin Roy and makes the initial 53-man roster.
Worst case scenario
Manoa struggles in every position that the Vikings put him in and struggles with leverage due to his height at 6'5". He can't find a position to stick and fails to make the practice squad.
What to expect in 2024
Manoa is a really interesting case. He spent five of his six seasons on the defensive line while also playing left tackle for UCLA in 2022. He transferred to Arizona and moved back to the defensive side of the football.
The intriguing element with all of the UDFAs is they have been guaranteed a large amount of money and Manoa is no different. He got a signing bonus of $10k with $20k guaranteed. The defensive line is also rather weak in comparison to other positions on the roster. Look for Manoa's versatility to earn him a practice squad spot. Don't be surprised if he thrives and makes the 53-man roster.
Previous player profiles
Devron Harper | Ty James | Trey Knox | Gabriel Murphy | Dwight McGlothern | Dallas Gant | Doug Nester | Jeshaun Jones | Taki Taimani | Jeremy Flax | Spencer Rolland
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