Vikings Defensive Line In Danger For 2014

Dec 30, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams (93) against the Green Bay Packers at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Packers 37-34. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier today, the Minnesota Vikings renegotiated a contract with Defensive Tackle Kevin Williams.  The move saved the Vikings approximately 2.5 million dollars, but also removed 2014 from his contract.

This wouldn’t be a problem, but the Vikings are already facing some major problems on the defensive line after this season.  Not only will Kevin Williams be a free agent, but many other mainstays on the line will be coming to the end of their contracts.

Defensive End Jared Allen is in the last year of his deal.  He’s currently making over 17 million dollars this year and the Vikings may have trouble getting him to work out an extension.  He’s also 31 years old and coming off injuries.

Defensive End/Defensive Tackle Everson Griffen is coming into the final year of his rookie deal.  He is the most likely of all the players to sign an extension because of his age and versatility.

Defensive End Brian Robison is also in the final year of his deal.  He’ll be 30 years old this year, but doesn’t have as much wear and tear on him as other starting Defensive Ends his age.

Defensive Tackle Fred Evans is the another player the Vikings will have to decide upon.  He is currently the backup for Letroy Guion, but was seemingly more effective than Guion last year.

With all of those players facing the end of their deals, it is almost a foregone conclusion that the Vikings Defensive Line will look different in 2014.  The only question is how many of these key players will they be able to retain?