James Lynch, a defensive lineman for the Minnesota Vikings, tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a training camp workout on Thursday. He will likely miss the 2023 season, a source told ESPN on Friday.

Lynch, a 2020 NFL draft fourth-round pick, started three games for the Vikings in the previous two seasons. But as the team switched to Brian Flores’ defensive strategy this summer, he was involved in a battle for game time. The next spring, Lynch will be eligible for unrestricted free agency.

Also Read: Who is Perry Johnson?

Here are the top 5 picks that Minnesota Vikings can use to replace the injured Lynch

Shelby Harris

The gifted defensive tackle was shipped to Seattle as part of the Russell Wilson trade. Harris has 24.5 sacks, 40.0 tackles for loss, and 29 passes defended in his eight-year career. He would provide the Vikings a someone who can slide in at 0T as a pass rusher and play 3T and 5T on base downs. His last contract was for $9 million AAV.

Michael Brockers

With 11 seasons of league experience, Brockers offers a veteran presence as well as the versatility to play across the line, primarily at 5T. Even though he only played six games with the Detroit Lions the previous season, his performance substantially declined.

Also Read: Idaho school bus crashes at Highway 55, 11 injured and 7 serious

Akiem Hicks

Hicks played in 11 games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season but only recorded 1.0 sacks and 2.0 tackles for loss. He may still cause trouble in a rotational capacity, but the move would probably cost more than the vet minimum.

Matt Ioannidis

The former Carolina Panther and Washington Commander has a remarkable playing background. Ioannidis has made 53 starts in his 86 games, totaling 25.5 sacks and 30 tackles for loss. Ioannidis, who won’t be 30 until after week 18, also fits the Vikings’ young movement.

Also Read: Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu suspended for six games | Here’s why

Ndamukong Suh

Ndamukong Suh could be the player with whom the Vikings have had the closest connections over the past few seasons but who hasn’t signed. He was the subject of rumors last year, but nothing came of them. Suh chose the Philadelphia Eagles instead. He might make a good starter at 5T and a nice player in the rotation.