Start off with a simple reality about the Vikings’ debut depth chart: things are still in flux.
In fact, the team website offers a disclaimer at the very top of the page, noting that things are going to get adjusted prior to the upcoming Bears game. Note, as well, that a coach isn’t bound to what’s said in the depth chart. One could, in theory, list Aaron Jones as the RB1 while nevertheless beginning the game with a run using Jordan Mason, the RB2. Even with the caveat shoved into the conversation, are there many surprises?
5 Surprises in The Vikings’ Debut Depth Chart
#1 — Jalen Redmond is a Starter Among the DTs
By no means a bad thing. Mr. Redmond had a promising 2024 and is now looking to fully solidify himself in the NFL.
What’s notable is simply that he’s seeing his name stand alongside veterans Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, both of whom have accomplished much. In all likelihood, Minnesota is going to spend a decent bit of time with just a pair of DTs on the field. In those instances, the Vikings are going to lean on Allen and Hargrave plenty.
Redmond, though, has a lot of supporters in Eagan. The athletic defensive tackle knows how to create havoc behind the line of scrimmage.
#2 — Ty Chandler Ahead of Zavier Scott at RB
Not sure if I buy this one, folks.
Ty Chandler is more established with the Vikings since he has been around since 2022. Would it be fair to say, though that there doesn’t appear to be a ton of upside with Chandler in Minnesota’s offense? Zavier Scott, in contrast, appears to be someone who can do some damage.
Don’t be surprised if the return of C.J. Ham means the end for Chandler as a Viking. Zavier Scott would then be the undisputed RB3.
#3 — Chaz Chambliss as the EDGE4
Could be nothing. Good chance it is nothing.
Nevertheless, it’s notable enough that Chambliss is coming in ahead of Bo Richter. Last season, Richter played quite a bit. He was mostly a part of the Matt Daniels special teams effort. One does wonder, though, if the shorter, muscular Richter could play a role along the d-line. He should be capable of winning leverage battles even if he won’t be as long as a lot of edge rushers.
Meanwhile, Chambliss appears to be someone to monitor due to his toughness and versatility. He’s an active football player.
#4 — Tai Felton as the KR1
Tai Felton has good length and speed, making him an attractive option as both a receiver and a gunner. Can he get the job done as a kickoff returner?
He had a bad fumble in the preseason. Being the returner means needing to prove capable of absorbing huge hits while still holding onto the football. Indeed, the special teams’ first job is to get the ball back, meaning that ball security is of the utmost importance.
Ball security and then field position is what it’s all about. Not being able to secure the pigskin — were it to come up as an issue — will lead to Felton losing his job as the KR1.
#5 — Carson Wentz Over Max Brosmer at QB2
In Carson Wentz, the Vikings have picked up a veteran who has seen a ton (including being a Super Bowl champion, albeit as an injured player who wasn’t able to participate).
Leaning on Mr. Wentz as the main backup is what most (if not all) are expecting. The detail to note is simply that his understanding of the offense is going to be limited. Max Brosmer, in contrast, has been chewing on the scheme since the spring, meaning the rookie UDFA likely has a better grasp of the plays even if Wentz will obviously have a better grasp of what it takes to find success on an NFL field.
The more time passes, the more this is going to be a non-issue. Wentz will learn the scheme and be the rightful QB2 as a veteran who has seen much. Brosmer, though, may actually be the better option to play if a game was taking place today.
Oh, and one more thing: Christian Darrisaw is listed as the LT1, suggesting that the stud lineman will be out there in Week 1. Whoever is playing quarterback will have an easier time when Mr. Darrisaw is dancing with pass rushers.
I’m the Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Email: k.joudry[at]purpleptsd[dot]com. I am Canadian.