Each year, several veterans end up getting cut or traded by their teams before the start of the regular season, and that will be the case again this season for Minnesota Vikings. They are expected to build on their playoff berth last season, and could pick youth over experience at a few spots on the roster.
There are a few veterans who might end up not being on the Vikings' roster at the start of the season. That could come via a trade, or more likely, a release. With that in mind, here are three veterans who are on the bubble to make the team.
WR Cordarrelle Patterson
Patterson has seemingly regressed every season since he's been in the league, and it's time for the Vikings to part ways with the former first-round pick. Despite his rare combination of size and speed, Patterson caught just two passes for 10 yards last season. His lackluster route-running and suspect hands mean he isn't able to get himself open, causing him to be buried on the depth chart. He does provide value as a kick returner, but the Vikings have other players on the roster that can take over that role.
OT Phil Loadholt
Loadholt is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon he suffered last season, and there's no guarantee that he'll be able to return to the player he once was. Minnesota signed Andre Smith this offseason to potentially take his spot as the starter at right tackle, and considering both are on one-year deals, the Vikings are unlikely to keep them both. Loadholt seems like the odd man out.
LB Audie Cole
Cole has been a fan favorite ever since he was drafted in the seventh round in 2012, but he has been unable to find a consistent role with the team. His playing time has also diminished every season under Mike Zimmer, and with the team drafting Kentrell Brothers - the fifth linebacker the Vikings have picked in the last three years - Cole's time with the Vikings appears to be over.
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