Another Piece of Bad News for the Vikings/49ers
The Minnesota Vikings have recently received a barrage of bad news.
Today’s practice is the most recent piece of bad news. Starting left guard Ezra Cleveland was nowhere to be found during practice, according to The Star Tribune’s Ben Goessling: “Ezra Cleveland wasn’t practicing for the second day in a row.” If Cleveland isn’t ready to return from his foot injury, the #Vikings could start Dalton Risner at guard for the first time on Monday night.”
Cleveland had to leave the most recent game due to the injury mentioned by Goessling. As a result, Dalton Risner received his first opportunity to play offensive snaps.
Another setback for the Vikings
Fortunately, the Vikings have Risner as their LG2.
Risner would be the starter in most offences, but his late addition and the relative strength along the Vikings’ iOL have kept the former Bronco on the bench. Cleveland’s injury provides an opportunity for Risner to demonstrate his abilities in Minnesota.
At Lincoln Financial Field on September 14, 2023, Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) is blocked by Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Olisaemeka Udoh (74) and guard Ezra Cleveland (72). Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports is required to provide credit.
The back and forth between Cleveland and Risner has previously been discussed.
In general, Cleveland has done a good job of keeping his quarterback upright. Cleveland is ranked ninth among guards by PFF, owing largely to his 72.3 pass blocking grade. They believe he is only responsible for one sack and three QB hits this season.
If Cleveland needs more time to get back to 100%, then having Risner as the replacement is a nice spot to be. The veteran guard signed a 1-year deal to find employment in Minnesota, carrying a cap hit that’s at $2.625 million. So, above a league minimum deal but far from backbreaking when it comes to the team budget.
Right now, the Vikings are having a difficult time finding a rhythm on offense. Not having Justin Jefferson is a major part of the issue, but there’s enough talent to still have a strong group. After all, we’re talking about an offense that boasts a top-12 NFL QB, the best pair of OTs in the game, a true TE1, and a promising rookie WR to fill in for Jefferson.
Put simply, the results need to be better. Losing Justin Jefferson and Ezra Cleveland can’t be an excuse for another poor performance. Minnesota cannot compete unless the offense starts operating at an elite level.
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