The Minnesota Vikings offensive line woes are well known, with many knowing it is their biggest roadblock from reaching their true potential. Unfortunately for the Vikings, the offensive line has now taken an even bigger hit, coming as the result of a devastating injury during their preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Starting right tackle Phil Loadholt, who tore his pectoral muscle last season and was put on injured reserve in November, has torn his Achilles. Loadholt left early in the first quarter, walking off the field with the help of trainers, before a cart came on to the sideline and took him off.
The 29-year-old Loadholt will have now missed 24 games over the past two seasons, after missing just two in his first five seasons combined. He registered a 13.0 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus in 2013 and 13.1 in 2012, demonstrating his prowess as a mauling run-blocker on the right side. His loss will certainly hurt the Vikings running game, but Adrian Peterson remains an elite running back and will do just fine.
Loadholt was replaced after the injury by fourth-round pick T.J. Clemmings, who is now an early favorite to start at right tackle. Clemmings has plenty of potential in parts thanks to his athleticism, which is becoming more of a trend. It's certainly early for the 23-year-old to be in this position but he has a strong coaching staff to work with him and a quarterback in Teddy Bridgewater, who can make his offensive linemen look better than they are.