Welcome to the beginning of our 2023 season preview content!
Over the next few weeks, we will be looking at each player on the roster in-depth with backgrounds and how they currently project forward on the Minnesota Vikings roster.
What is the best-case scenario? What is the worst-case scenario? What should we expect from them during the preseason and beyond? We will break all of that down here.
As a staff, all of us at Vikings Wire ranked the entire 90-man roster 1-90 and will be releasing player profiles in reverse order.
Background
Name: Sam Schlueter
Rank: 85
Height: 6’6″
Weight: 309 lbs
Experience: Second year
College: Minnesota
Stats (At Minnesota): 43 games, starts at both left and right tackle
Votes:
Tyler Forness: 85
Kevin Fielder: 86
Judd Zulgad: 85
Saivion Mixson: 85
Average: 85.25
Best case scenario
When you have reserves on the offensive line, they need to be able to play multiple positions. That’s something Schlueter can do in droves. At Minnesota, he started at both left and right tackle for the Golden Gophers and played at a high level. With a lot of experience running inside zone and duo, he is a fit for what the Vikings want to do. Showing the ability to play well at multiple positions could give Schlueter the opportunity to compete for a roster spot.
Worst case scenario
Being that he’s going into his second year and was only signed after rookie minicamp, expectations are low for him moving forward. He has a long road ahead of him to supplant guys like Vederian Lowe and Oli Udoh.
What to expect in 2023
Schlueter has experience blocking in this type of scheme, including his time with the San Francisco 49ers last season. The versatility of being able to play multiple positions will likely help him get on the field more. Practice squad is a possibility for Schlueter, but not a certainty.
Previous player profiles
90-Garett Maag
89-Jack Podlesny
88-Zach Ojile
87-NaJee Thompson
86-Thayer Thomas
