Vikings Free Agent Rumors: Daryl Smith Could Hit Market

Nov 3, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Fozzy Whittaker (35) runs against Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Daryl Smith (51) and Ravens inside linebacker Jameel McClain (53) at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Saturday marks the beginning of the three day “legal tampering window,” a period where teams are allowed to negotiate with the reps for free agents from other clubs, but not actually sign contracts.

This means what exactly? It means a bunch of rumors will be floating out over the next couple days about teams speaking to free agents, most of them put out there by agents hoping to drum up a market for the guys they represent.

These rumors may not be worth anything as news, but they make for good entertainment.

The Vikings we know will be targeting some free agents during this period, mostly on the defensive side of the ball. Cornerback and linebacker are two spots of particular concern.

One name to keep an eye on as this process rolls forward is Daryl Smith. The Ravens ILB could test the market, and the Vikings might want to look at him.

Smith is coming off a year where, besides rolling up 123 tackles, he also had five sacks and two interceptions, one of which was taken back for a TD, and 2 forced fumbles.

That potential for not just workmanlike production but actual playmaking should draw multiple teams to Smith’s door. The Ravens reportedly want Smith back, but Aaron Wilson says nothing is imminent.

It certainly looks like Smith will at least test the market. The Vikings have already looked at former Minnesota linebacker Jasper Brinkley and will be visiting with street free agent Jameel McClain on Monday. They’re not allowed to visit Smith per league rules, but they can certainly call up Smith’s agent during the legal tampering window and see what there is to see.

Middle linebacker is definitely a need, with just Audie Cole and Michael Mauti in there right now.

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