MANKATO, Minn.
— In a unit in which continuity is crucial, the Vikings’ offensive line is undergoing another overhaul. St. Paul native Matt Birk, a six-time Pro Bowl center, signed with the Baltimore Ravens in the offseason, and 2006 second-round pick Ryan Cook has been benched at right tackle. The Vikings’ rebuilt line — featuring second-year center John Sullivan and rookie right tackle Phil Loadholt — will debut tonight in Indianapolis. “I think they’re doing all right so far,” said right guard Anthony Herrera, who plays between Sullivan and Loadholt. “Like my first year, they’re going to take their lumps and bruises. “They’ve taken the coaching and are learning from it. But Friday night, we’ll really know what’s going on.” Both Sullivan and Loadholt have tremendous upside. Sullivan, who attended Notre Dame, is known for his intelligence, quickness and work ethic. Loadholt has sheer size (6 feet 8, 343 pounds) and athleticism. But there are concerns about both young players.
With Sullivan, it’s his size and strength. He’s listed at 6 feet 3, 301 pounds. Birk played at 6-4, 310.