Wisconsin offensive lineman Joe Huber (60) is shown during the third quarter of their game Saturday, October 26, 2024 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin. Penn State beat Wisconsin 28-13. Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Undrafted Wisconsin Badgers OL Joe Huber has strong chance to make real impact for Minnesota Vikings

Originally posted on Wisconsin Badgers on SI
By Lorin Cox | Last updated Apr 27, 2025 10:58 PM ET

Just because Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Joe Huber went undrafted doesn't mean his NFL future is in doubt.

He landed in one of the best possible situations to not only make a 53-man roster but have an impact as a rookie.

On the surface, the Minnesota Vikings might not look like the ideal team for an undrafted interior lineman to sign with.

staying in the Midwest

Congratulations, @JoeHuber14!#MadeInMadison x #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/jRK7O4HEge
— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) April 27, 2025

The team just signed veteran right guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly in free agency, and they used their first round pick on Donovan Jackson from Ohio State, who is projected to start at left guard.

Behind those starters, though, the Vikings don't have much proven depth.

Their backups are headlined by former sixth-round pick Blake Brandel, former seventh-round pick Michael Jurgens and practice squad guard Henry Byrd.

Huber was projected to go as early as the fifth round and could beat out any of those players at training camp to be a top backup on the Minnesota interior.

I also had draftable grades on Vikings UDFAs QB Max Brosmer (Minnesota), OG Joe Huber (Wisconsin) and ED Tyler Batty (BYU). At worst, all three are strong practice squad candidates.
— nfldraftnik (@KevinBrownNFL) April 27, 2025

The starters ahead of him on the depth chart a history of injuries that could create playing time for the Vikings top backups, which could very well be Huber.

Fries played only five games this season before fracturing his tibia, and Kelly missed seven games with neck and knee injuries.

Huber has played tackle, guard and center throughout his college career, and that versatility will go along way toward carving out his role with the Vikings.

I'm very intrigued by the potential development of Wisconsin IOL Joe Huber at the next level.

Scheme versatile. Has experience at guard and center. Pass protection is his strongsuit.

Able to diagnose stunts. Able to anchor with consistent hand placement to create leverage.… pic.twitter.com/cpZbkEDdft
— Colton Edwards (@coltonedwardsFB) February 27, 2025