Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
When you are selected in the first round of the NFL draft, it brings with it immediate pressure. Dallas Turner’s slow start is not cause for immediate panic but eyes will remain fixated on him awaiting a burst in production.
It started well for Turner in Week 1 against the New York Giants where he played 36 defensive snaps (51%), made three tackles (including a tackle for loss), and had his first career sack. It was a promising start but after limping off the field against the 49ers he missed the Week 3 game against the Texans with a knee injury.
It has been quiet for Turner who has only played a combined 28 defensive snaps – less than in his Week 1 debut – over the last three games. A career low of four snaps led to questions aimed at Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell.
The Vikings HC was dismissive of any concerns over the rookie aiming that: “He’s going to be an absolute monster for us.” Also noting that he is in a deep group of edge rushers and that Brian Flores’ defense asks a lot of players, particularly young ones with plenty left to learn.
New signings Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel have had excellent starts to the season and Patrick Jones surprised many with 5 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble in the first four games. For now, the Vikings rely on their veteran edge players but Jones hasn’t been as effective in the last couple of games. Should that continue, Turner’s diminished role may not continue.
A first-round defensive player drafted by Kwesi Adofo-Mensah not having an immediate impact brings with it some snap reactions.
There is no need to fear another draft bust here. Turner did more in his debut than Lewis Cine did in his entire time in Minnesota. Cine suffered a horrific broken leg in his rookie season, but he only had two defensive snaps in the first four weeks of the season before the injury and only eight in his second season. Both players came into strong veteran position groups but Turner will have plenty of chances this season.
Turner is a smaller edge defender at 247 lbs who’s big skill coming out of college was his speed – 4.46 40 time at the NFL combine. Coach O’Connell also spoke this week about how roles and responsibilities sometimes change in-game. The Vikings seemed to lean towards bigger guys to match up against the powerful Lions offense. We saw a lot more Jonathan Bullard and Jerry Tillery than in previous games.
Turner was among the early bookmakers’ favorite for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He is no longer in that conversation and is unlikely to be again unless he suddenly explodes over the next 11 games. At just 21, Turner should have a long career ahead of him. The high IQ level of Flores’ defense takes time for young players to get a handle on and there’s a lot more to the outside linebacker position in this defense than just rushing the passer.
O’Connell’s firm response of just how good he expects Turner to be should ease any worries. The Vikings weren’t expected to be thrust into win-now mode this year and that also plays its part. Turner will grow into this defense and his role will expand. Don’t be surprised if the Vikings have some opportunities dialed up for him this week.