Vikings roster analysis: Defensive line

We'll take a daily look at where the Vikings' roster stands at the moment position-by-position leading up to our NFL Combine coverage next week.

Position: Defensive line

On the roster: Brian Robison, Chase Baker, Letroy Guion, Sharrif Floyd, Kheeston Randall

Free agents: Jared Allen, Fred Evans, Kevin Williams, Everson Griffen, Justin Trattou

Outside of quarterback, the defensive line is the weakest unit on the team this offseason. Brian Robison is the only returning starter from last year with Jared Allen, Fred Evans and Kevin Williams all unrestricted free agents.

While Allen and Robison each had solid sack totals (Allen finished with 11.5 and Robison with 9.5), it was an average season for the unit. The defensive line lacked a consistent pass rush, which didn't help a young secondary that finished 31^st in pass defense allowing 397.8 yards per game.

The run coverage was better but still average compared to the rest of the league. The Vikings finished 16^th allowing 110.4 yards a game.

Griffen on the other hand would be worth to pursue in free agency. The franchise tag period began on Monday and will be open for the next two weeks. It's hard to see the Vikings use their franchise tag this offseason, but Griffen would make the strongest case out of the team's free agents. He would receive $12.6 million next season however if the team did tag him, which would be the second most for any franchise tag position.

Quarterback: $16.2 million

Defensive end: $12.6 million

Wide receiver: $11.6 million

Cornerback: $11.3 million

Linebacker: $11 million

Defensive tackle: $9.2 million

Running back: $9.1 million

Safety: $8.1 million

Tight end: $6.8 million

There aren't many pass rushers in free agency and the draft, while the demand is high. Griffen, 26, spent the last four years as a backup to Allen and Robison and made just one start in four seasons. He has played in every game for the last three seasons and can be used anywhere on the defensive line.