This week we should be focusing on the Vikings’ upcoming preseason game, but the NFL has canceled preseason games this year because of the pandemic. So instead, this week I’ll answer some questions I’ve received on Twitter. But first, let’s go over some quick news and notes.
Linebacker Cameron Smith will be sitting this year out. During a Covid-19 test, it was discovered the second-year player needs open-heart surgery to fix a bicuspid aortic valve. The Vikings brought in linebacker Quintin Poling to replace him.
As detailed last week, Mike Zimmer signed an extension that will keep him in Minnesota for at least the next few years. Shortly after that article was written, the Vikings announced they also signed General Manager Rick Spielman to an extension as well. Spielman and Zimmer have been together since 2014 and have done well enough that Ziggy Wilf and the rest of the Vikings’ ownership group felt comfortable locking them in for three more years.
On to some questions!
A lot of you have asked why the Vikings have not brought back defensive end Everson Griffen. The 32-year old has played in Minnesota all 10 years he’s been in the league, and as of right now is still a free agent. With all of the upheaval on the defense, and especially with defensive tackle Michael Pierce electing to sit this season out, it makes sense to bring Griffen back. Sources say the Vikings have made multiple offers to the DE, but the two sides remain far apart on compensation. There is still time for the sides to come to an agreement, but the Vikings appear ready to enter the 2020 season with a new starter at the right defensive end position.
Another question that gets brought up a lot is why the Vikings have been unable to move from “good” to “great”. Most people believe the biggest reason is the team’s inconsistency at quarterback, and there is certainly some truth to that. However, I believe the fault lies along the offensive line. If you’ve been reading my articles for a while, you’ll know I think the offensive line is consistently this team’s Achilles heel. The Vikings have tried to fix the line, but for whatever reason, they can’t seem to figure it out. Once they do, I think we’ll see this team ascend to the “great” tier.
Speaking of the offensive line, another question I get is who the starting five will be once the regular season rolls around. Offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak recently had a video chat with the media, and he went in-depth while explaining his thought process when it comes to the offensive line. He believes Riley Rieff will remain at left tackle and is poised for a great year. He also thinks the other three returning starters will resume their roles this year, with Pat Elflein at left guard, Garrett Bradbury at center, and Brian O’Neill at right tackle. As far as right guard goes, Kubiak mentions Dakota Dozier, Aviante Collins, and rookie Ezra Cleveland as the three players who will compete for that position.
Do you agree with the Vikings signing Zimmer and Spielman to contract extensions? Reach out to me on Twitter (@JordanWrightNFL) and let me know. Skol!