Kevin O'Connell on the Vikings' defense, replacing Darrisaw & McCarthy's progression

2. Try to find the “Best 5 O-line”.

David Quessenberry, Dalton Risner, and Walter Rouse are some names to become familiar with.

The first replaced Darrisaw on Thursday, and O'Connell said he “did some things to help us” but was also beaten by bull rushes – and hasn't been more than a starting spot for any team since 2021 with the Titans.

Quessenberry, who is 34 years old, might be best suited to remain as the team's swing tackle. Of course, this scenario only works if Rouse, a rookie, is ready for his NFL debut or the O-line is reshuffled.

“Walter had some real highlights, particularly the power with which he played in pre-season; a big, strong guy. He’s very smart,” O’Connell said. “As far as his development goes, he’s on a great path.”

The Vikings could always move left guard Blake Brandel to tackle, where he has played in the past, and then insert left of center Garrett Bradbury Risner, who is about to exit his 21-day evaluation window. Risner, O'Connell said, will be part of the discussions focused on finding the top five OLs for the future.

Apparently O'Connell and his staff are tasked with identifying more than just five men. They will exhaust every option to put together the best group of eight offensive linemen they can use on game day.

“I feel like there's opportunity here with (the) O-line depth that we felt good about throughout training camp and then before the season,” O'Connell explained, adding that there are some options available would be available.