Vikings ILBs Coach Mike Siravo Praises Brian Asamoah's Versatility

It was hard to not to notice Vikings second-year linebacker Brian Asamoah at Tuesday's OTA practice. Not only is he a phenomenal athlete who is always around the football, he was constantly moving around before the snap, presenting different looks to the offense.

With Eric Kendricks gone, Asamoah is a projected starter alongside Jordan Hicks at inside linebacker this year. According to inside linebackers coach Mike Siravo, Asamoah's versatility should fit perfectly in Brian Flores' aggressive, complex defense.

"BA, man, what a gifted athlete," Siravo said on Wednesday. "Brings unreal energy, just keep getting reps in the new scheme. He's one of those chess pieces that, you're going to see him all over the field. He could rush, he could drop, he can do a bunch of different things, he's athletic enough to play man (coverage). Love his energy in the room every day. Still a young player who's — you gotta learn how to be a pro in this league and he's doing a great job of that, taking on a new defensive staff, and just running with it. He's been awesome."

Asamoah, perhaps the best-kept secret on the Vikings' roster, could be in line for a big second season under the tutelage of Siravo and Flores. He has the athleticism and playmaking ability to be effective with a wide range of responsibilities, provided he continues to take advantage of offseason practice reps and dives into the playbook.