Change in the Tight Ends

This 2012 Vikings roster will have a new look with all the newcomers. One sight that will be so different is when we see number 40 out there. No it will not be Jim Kleinasser, rather it will be draft choice Rhett Ellison.

I was at the last game of the year against Chicago. My seats are in the upper deck section 215 right above where the Vikings come out onto the field. This time it was sad as I watched the team leave knowing the season is over. One player who had trouble leaving was Jim Kleinsasser. I watched as family gathered around and pictures were taken. He finally was able to leave waving to the remaining fans.

Jim was a 13 year member of the Vikings, and with free agency in play it is remarkable Jim made it with one team only his whole career. Jim was not flashy, nor was he high on fantasy charts. Jim was a work horse who never missed games. He just took pride in his blocking and was he ever good at it. He will be missed. It is great for the state of North Dakota having a player like Jim representing them.

The other tight end gone is Visanthe Shiancoe. I will never forget the year 2007 we signed Shiancoe and Vinny Ciurciu as the teams only free agents. It was a mild surprise not to have a big name free agent sign. Visanthe proved to be so valuable. The 2009 season he had was unbelievable. Visanthe is now gone.

The Vikings now have Kyle Rudolph who is in his second year. Kyle stands 6"6" and from last season showed the hands he is capable of. I look for a big season out of Kyle.

The free agent signing of John Carlson is very exciting. He stands at 6'5" which makes for a great target down the seam. The coincidence of them both from Notre Dame may make for some common bond as the two learn to work together.

Mickey Shuler is also vying for some playing time. He too comes from a major college and that being Penn State. His dad Mickey Sr. also played tight end in the NFL from 1979-1991. The experience his dad can offer could be huge for young Shuler. Mickey Jr stands at 6'4" making for a third big target.

The bottom line on these three tall and young tight ends should provide stability in the position for the future.

Coach Musgrave came to Minnesota with intentions of using tight ends in the offense. Last year did not materialize the way I thought it would. Hopefully this year we'll have better results with the tight ends.

Up next, offensive line thoughts.

Thanks for reading,
Purplestick