Dec 2, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) is tackled by Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jasper Brinkley (54) after catching a pass during the first quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
The buzz going into Legal Tampering Weekend was all about the Vikings bringing in Mike Zimmer guys to fill up the defense. But so far all they’ve actually done is bring back Rick Spielman guys.
Everson Griffen will reportedly return on a fat five-year deal worth $20 million in guarantees. And now another familiar face is back in the fold. Mike Garafolo reports the Vikes will bring back MLB Jasper Brinkley on a one-year deal.
It remains to be seen if Griffen and Brinkley can turn into Zimmer guys, but we know Spielman obviously likes them.
The Vikes, likely for cap reasons as much as anything, let the former starter Brinkley walk before the 2013 season. The linebacker landed in Arizona but didn’t do enough to convince the Cardinals to bring him back.
Now with the Vikings seeking linebacker depth, Minnesota has elected to go with the known quantity.
What we know about Jasper Brinkley: He’s decent against the run and can play downhill. In coverage he is brutal.
As a middle linebacker ranging around and making plays? I’m not feeling it. We’ll see what Zimmer’s plan is for Brinkley, but my feeling here is that this was a depth signing and more moves will be coming at linebacker, possibly in the draft.
Brinkley is a backup, and that’s all he is.
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