Note: For the next five weekdays, we'll take an exclusive look at the Vikings' draft. We'll combine positions on some days in order to address as many areas as possible. Check for a new post by mid-morning through Thursday.
The issues: The Vikings have questions essentially at every spot along their line, whether it's age, injuries or ineffective play. Depth is also a problem. They have a new position coach and a new offensive scheme, so changes are likely.
What they have: Left tackle Bryant McKinnie (32 in September) and left guard Steve Hutchinson (34 in November) aren't getting any younger. McKinnie's inconsistency continues to draw the ire of fans. He is under contract through 2013, but the Vikings need to find an eventual replacement for him.
Hutchinson finished last season on injured reserve because of a broken bone in his hand and can't play at a Pro Bowl level forever.
Center John Sullivan had a rough 2010 season that included the death of his father before training camp and two separate calf injuries. Sullivan's size and ability to hold up against mammoth nose tackles remains an issue, but the team seems willing to stick with him after pointing to everything he endured last season.
Right guard Anthony Herrera has battled a few injuries in recent seasons, including ACL surgery late in the 2010 season. It's unclear when he will return to full strength after this latest injury. Right tackle Phil Loadholt's second season wasn't as promising as his rookie campaign, partly because he was bothered by offseason shoulder surgery the first few months. Loadholt remains better as a run blocker than in pass protection, but he's a tough player who has the right mentality and focus.
The team liked what it saw from guard Chris DeGeare in relief of Hutchinson late in his rookie season. DeGeare will compete for the starting job at right guard in camp.
Ryan Cook is entering his sixth season and has become the backup utility lineman who is capable of playing multiple positions.
