Oct 21, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Erin Henderson (50) against the Arizona Cardinals at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Cardinals 21-14. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
After the signing of free agent Desmond Bishop, there has been speculation as to what will happen with Erin Henderson. Most assumed that he would move back to Outside Linebacker and Bishop would take over the duties at Middle Linebacker. That doesn’t seem to be the case.
Recently, Erin Henderson had an opportunity to talk about his role with the team during an interview with Sirius XM Radio:
Dec 9, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Kellen Davis (87) catches a pass for 4 yards as Minnesota Vikings cornerback Antoine Winfield (26) tackles him with help from linebacker Erin Henderson (50) in the fourth quarter at the Metrodome. The Vikings win 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
“At this point there’s no plans of me moving back to the outside. I’m still playing middle linebacker after speaking with my coaches. That’s the decision that they made and what they want to do right now. I’m still embracing it. I’m still looking forward to it and I’m still excited about the opportunity to get out there and play Mike for the Vikings.”
If Henderson and Bishop both remain at Middle Linebacker, the battle for the position left vacant by Henderson will be an interesting one. There are many inexperienced players who would be fighting for that spot. Of course, there is always the chance that the position will go to whoever doesn’t win the starting Middle Linebacker job.
Either way, don’t expect Henderson to give up. He seems determined to win that job and prove his critics wrong.