NFL analyst projects larger role for Vikings defensive lineman Elijah Williams
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 3:04 AM
Last updated Sep 9, 2026
Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Elijah Williams enters the 2026 season positioned for a potentially expanded role following a productive preseason. Despite playing only 42 defensive snaps as an undrafted free agent in 2025, Williams registered nine tackles and displayed consistent pass-rushing skills during practice sessions. KFAN 1003 analyst Ben Leber noted the second-year player's quickness and technical development as factors that could make him a disruptive presence in the defensive front. Competition for playing time remains tight due to the team's depth, with veterans Jalen Redmond and Levi Drake-Rodriguez currently factoring heavily into the rotation. Williams continues to compete for snaps alongside fellow lineman Jacob Thomas and high-round draft picks on the Minnesota roster. The organization has previously found success developing undrafted talent under defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
- •Elijah Williams logged 42 defensive snaps and nine tackles during his 2025 rookie season.
- •Analyst Ben Leber highlighted the 285-pound lineman's explosive pass-rushing ability and hand usage.
- •Williams faces competition for rotation spots from Jalen Redmond and Levi Drake-Rodriguez.
- •Minnesota remains committed to utilizing a rotation system to maintain defensive front freshness.
- 3:04 AMYahoo Sports — NFL Analyst Believes Vikings’ Second-Year D-Lineman Could Be In For A Huge Year
"Minnesota Vikings defensive end Elijah Williams isn’t exactly a big name. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent after the 2025 NFL Draft and only played 42 defensive snaps across his seven games last season.However, he did flash potential in the limited opportunities he received. Despite only playing 42 snaps, he was credited […] The post NFL Analyst Believes Vikings’ Second-Year D-Lineman Could Be In For A Huge Year appeared first on HEAVY.
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