When backup Vikings linebackers were struggling on defense and special teams during the preseason, co-defensive coordinator Adam Zimmer said the "train is leaving" to convey the urgency he wanted to see from the position.
Nick Vigil, Blake Lynch and company caught the train, easing concerns about the position's depth just as it nears full strength. Vigil, a sixth-year journeyman, impressed in his four starts for linebacker Anthony Barr, who was a full participant again Thursday ahead of his expected return Sunday against the Lions. Barr will return to his full-time role, moving Vigil to just weak-side linebacker duties in the base defense.
"He's still going to play," Barr said. "He'll definitely get his reps. He's a great player."
Vigil had 30 tackles (two for a loss), an interception returned for a touchdown and a sack in four starts. Barr, playing in his first game in 13 months, will have his conditioning monitored. But coaches are confident he can handle a normal workload right away.
"He started to get over that hump in practice," Zimmer said. "He's taken a lot of reps now, and I think he's comfortable getting his sea legs back."
Linebackers Troy Dye and Ryan Connelly have impressed on special teams. Lynch, a second-year undrafted linebacker, has received solid grades from coaches in back-to-back weeks while filling Barr's role as the strong-side linebacker in the base defense.
"[Lynch] really had his best game against Cleveland," Zimmer said. "He was more physical, got off the blocks and made some plays. He works his tail off, and I've always seen potential in him. I've just wanted to see it on tape, and I think, especially the last two weeks, I think he's found his way with it a little bit."
Cook, Pierce remain sidelined