T.J. Clemmings is nothing if not versatile.
From basketball power forward to defensive end, college-tackle-turned-NFL-rookie guard to Phil Loadholt's sudden replacement, Clemmings has been thrust into several roles throughout his athletic career.
Yet the stakes have never been higher as Clemmings pivots from a developing player to the Vikings' top right tackle.
Clemmings inherits Loadholt's long-held position after the veteran offensive lineman suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during Saturday night's 26-16 preseason victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at TCF Bank Stadium.
The somber postgame mood in Minnesota's locker room underscored the empathy and respect players have for Loadholt, a six-year veteran and team leader.