Minnesota Vikings: 5 Dream targets in 2018 NFL free agency

KANSAS CITY, MP - JANUARY 15: Running back Le'Veon Bell #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers tosses the ball forward after gaining a first down against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 15, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images /

Andrew Norwell, G, Carolina Panthers

Without a doubt, the Vikings offensive line has been lightyears better this season. The additions of Riley Reiff, Mike Remmers and Pat Elflein have been key to the significant improvement on that side of the ball. Still, the Minnesota front five is far from perfect.

More specifically, help is needed at guard.

Right now, the Vikings are starting Joe Berger and Nick Easton on either side of Elflein. That’s a problem, especially when looking towards the future. More than likely, the 35-year-old Berger is hanging it up soon. Easton has been a serviceable starter, but is far from a long-term answer on the left side.

No matter which way you look at it, the Vikings should seek out an upgrade in 2018. Well, look no further than Andrew Norwell, who is arguably the best guard scheduled to become a free agent this upcoming offseason. He’s been dominant for the Carolina Panthers over the last few years, proving to be one of the league’s best interior pass blockers.

Easton hasn’t been bad in pass protection, but is he really the guy the Vikings want protecting Teddy Bridgewater and his shaky knee? Probably not. Replacing him with Norwell, though, would give Minnesota some peace of mind.

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