Former Pitt offensive lineman Brian O’Neill saw regular playing time with the Minnesota Vikings over the past two weeks, and he acquitted himself well for the team at right tackle during that time. His performance also drew the attention of the staff of Pro Football Focus, which rated him the third-best rookie lineman so far this season with a grade of 67.3.
O’Neill was initially thrust into action after Vikings right tackle Rashod Hill suffered an ankle injury during the team’s matchup with the Green Bay Packers on Sept. 16. After entering the game in the third quarter, the Pitt product performed admirably, helping star quarterback Kirk Cousins mount a late comeback to even the score at 29.