In the NFL, there are a few "revolving door" positions on a roster, meaning you could see a rotation of players in that role every week, month, and even by year. The biggest position you could see this in is running back, but linebacker provides such flexibility that teams could ride the hot hand. According to one staff writer at Bleacher Report, Minnesota could see a linebacker be cut before week one. Moe Moton of Bleacher Report listed one player from each team who could be a cut candidate, and he listed linebacker Ivan Pace as someone who may not make the 53-man roster. Here is what he had to say:
Ivan Pace Jr.'s snap count is trending in the wrong direction. In his 2023 rookie season, he played 62 percent of the defensive snaps. Last year, he saw the field for 30 percent of the snaps. Pace has a two-down linebacker skill set, but opposing quarterbacks have targeted him while he's in limited coverage duties. In 2024, he allowed two touchdowns and a 101.1 passer rating. Last season, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores benched Pace for Eric Wilson. Assuming that sticks, the latter will line up alongside Blake Cashman in the middle of the defense. This offseason, Minnesota selected Jake Golday in the second round of the draft and signed Jamal Adams, who converted from safety to linebacker with the Las Vegas Raiders last season. After losing a starting job, Pace should be on high alert with the addition of Golday and Adams to the linebacker room.
One can argue that Pace still has a role on this defense, but it is in a clear run-down. Yes, there are gaps in his pass coverage that need addressing, but he showed in his rookie year that he can be a run stuffer and play a key role on this defense. The preseason will be huge for Pace to earn a roster spot this season. This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: One Vikings LB labeled as someone to be cut by the team