LB Jasper Brinkley Wants To Return To Minnesota Vikings

When the Minnesota Vikings signed linebacker Jasper Brinkley to a one year deal this offseason, they were hoping to bring in a veteran to compete with some of the younger players on the team. Instead, they found themselves with a starter that they got an an extreme bargain.

Sep 21, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker Jasper Brinkley (54) tackles New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks (10) during the first half of a game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

After signing the one year deal worth $830,000, Brinkley proved to be an effective thumper at middle linebacker, accumulating 75 tackles on the season and forcing one fumble. He even ended up as the NFL’s #8 middle linebacker against the run according to Pro Football Focus during the 2014 NFL season.

In a recent article by The Star Tribune, Jasper Brinkley spoke about his 2014 season with Minnesota.

"“I was happy with the opportunities I was given,” Brinkley said last week. “It’s all I could ask for.”"

Later, he went on talk discuss his future in the NFL and where he could land next season.

"“[We’ll] just see where it goes, man,” Brinkley said. “See where the wind blows. Hopefully it’s back here again, because I have a lot of ties to this place. It’s where I was drafted as a rookie. I’ve played a fair amount of football here.”"

The Vikings should try to retain Jasper Brinkley even if they do land a middle linebacker with a top pick in the draft or in free agency. He could be a valuable veteran voice at the position and give great competition to the younger players fighting for the spot. If nothing, the familiarity with the team and defense and his success with them should be enough for him to earn another year in Minnesota if he wants it.

What do you feel the Vikings should do with Jasper Brinkley? Should Minnesota try to sign him back, or should they let him walk? Discuss it in the comments below.

More from The Viking Age

Home/Minnesota Vikings News