It's the biggest question mark on the roster.
- Option 1:
- Josh Ball: 2021 4th round pick.
- Matt Waletzko: Rookie 5th round pick. Looked better in Senior Bowl 1-on-1 drills than Penning.
- Aviante Collins: 4th season in the NFL including practice squad. 1 start with Vikings in 2019.
- Option 2:
- Sign a veteran OT during camp or after the cut to 53.
- There will likely be some cap cuts of older veteran starters that were replaced by a premium draft pick.
- Option 3:
- Move Steel to LT and use one of the above at RT.
- Option 4:
- Move Steele to LT and Martin to RT.
- McGovern or Farniok at RG.
- Option 5:
- Move Tyler Smith to LT with McGovern or Farniok at LG.
The best option, in case of in game injury or during the week, is Steele moving from starting RT to LT, with either Ball or Martin going to RT.
That beats moving Tyler to LT when he is trying to learn LG IMO.
Also, if they sign a vet swing, where's the roster room for the developmental guys that they must think can be fringe starters considering the draft capital used.
I'd rather bet on the upside of a Waletzko than use that roster spot on a Nsheke or Erving type.
Worst case, I wouldn't think a vet backup swing tackle would be that difficult to acquire at end of camp time if need be. Meanwhile give the kids a shot.