The Vikings' Defensive Line Boasts an Unusual Detail Rolling into the 2026 Season

The Vikings’ defensive line is entering the 2026 season with an unusually young look. With Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave cut, Jalen Redmond is expected to become the veteran anchor at 27 years old, headed into his third full NFL season. The depth chart mixes youthful starters and practice-squad options: Levi Drake Rodriguez (26), Ty Ingram-Dawkins (23), Elijah Williams (23), Caleb Banks (23) and Domonique Orange (22), plus practice-squad nose tackle Jones (28) and Ritzie (23). Averaging the six roster ages gives an average of 24. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores is betting on youth, while new defensive line coach Ryan Nielsen brings long coaching experience. Minnesota opens at home vs. the Green Bay Packers in Week 1.