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Vikings roster countdown: No. 64 Blake Brandel — capable swing tackle

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Vikings
By Will Ragatz | Last updated 7/26/23

Ahead of the Vikings' 2023 preseason, we'll be taking a look at every player on the 90-man roster, counting down from 99 to 0 (excluding the UDFAs, who we've already profiled). For every player, we'll look at the best and worst-case scenarios and their realistic outlook for the upcoming season.

No. 64: Blake Brandel, T

Age: 26 | Size: 6'7", 315

Blake Brandel has returned value for the Vikings since being drafted out of Oregon State in the sixth round back in 2020. He spent his rookie season and much of year two on the practice squad, but he was needed late last year — and filled in capably — when Christian Darrisaw dealt with multiple concussions.

Brandel stepped in for Darrisaw at left tackle in the second half of the Vikings' thrilling win over the Bills, playing quite well in that game. He had a rough go against the Cowboys like the rest of Minnesota's offense, but was solid against the Patriots in his first career start and played very well against the Jets the following week (78.8 PFF grade). Unfortunately, Brandel got hurt against the Lions in his third start and wound up on injured reserve. If that hadn't happened, he might've started over Oli Udoh at right tackle in the playoffs when Brian O'Neill got hurt.

As he enters the final year of his rookie contract, Brandel seems to be in line to be the swing tackle, which would put him next in line if either Darrisaw or O'Neill had to miss time.

Best-case scenario: Brandel plays well in limited reps as the swing tackle (and an occasional sixth lineman in heavy packages). Next offseason, he either returns to the Vikings in the same role or signs elsewhere to compete for a starting job.

Worst-case scenario: Brandel is thrust into extended action due to an injury to one of the Vikings' tackles and it goes poorly, particularly in pass protection.

Outlook for 2023: The swing tackle is an important player. The Vikings hope Brandel doesn't see the field much, but he's valuable to have as insurance at both tackle spots.

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