Two Minnesota Vikings Free Agents Seek Bigger Paydays

Two key reserves for the Minnesota Vikings that played big roles during the 2014 NFL season are looking for more compensation for the 2015 season according to the folks at the Pioneer Press.

Dec 15, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings offensive lineman Joe Berger (61) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Eagles 48-30. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Offensive lineman Joe Berger and defensive lineman Tom Johnson both had good seasons during their 2014 campaign, but neither one made much money for that season. In fact, Joe Berger was making the league minimum for a veteran of his tenure ($920,000) and Tom Johnson well outplayed his small deal ($845,000).

Tom Johnson is seeking a multi-year deal in the NFL according to what the Pioneer Press said that his agent, Bardia Ghahremani said in a statement on Tuesday. The 30 year old ended up second on the Minnesota Vikings in sacks and could be a huge asset for the Vikings if they were able to get him under contract.

"“Tom knows what he is and the value he brings to the table. We’re not looking for another, ‘Come in for another one-year deal.’ We want to find him a home for the rest of his career, a three- or four-year deal in the right situation and right system… If the Vikings make a fair offer, absolutely I would say the Vikings are his first choice.’’"

From the sound of things, the situation is similar for guard/center Joe Berger. He seems to want to return to the Minnesota Vikings, but both Berger and his agent Thomas Tafelski know that he is a valuable backup that can also play at a high level if asked to step into a starting role.

"“He loves the Minnesota organization. They’ve treated him really well over the last few years but at the same time it is a business… He would like to be where he can get adequately compensated. By no stretch is Joe just looking for money, money money. But he started nine games last year and played at a proficient level. So come on, sometimes you got to step up.’’"

Personally, I want to see both Berger and Johnson return to the Minnesota Vikings. Both are familiar with the systems in Minnesota and have played well enough to have earned a raise in pay. To me, bringing these players back at an increased salary would be better than going after an unproven free agent or one that we don’t know how they would fit in with the Vikings.

What do you guys think? Are Berger and Johnson worth bringing back for a little extra money or should the team look to the 2015 NFL Draft and free agency to fill those holes? Let us know in the comments below!

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