Vikings free agency 2017: What defensive ends are available?

Sep 18, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) celebrates a sack of New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) celebrates a sack of New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 16, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins defensive end Chris Baker (92) celebrates against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins defensive end Chris Baker (92) celebrates against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

Chris Baker

  • 29-years-old
  • 6-foot-2, 298 pounds

2016 stats (in 16 games with the Washington Redskins)

  • 48 total tackles, 4.5 sacks
  • 2 pass deflections, 2 forced fumbles

A former nose tackle, Baker has been a solid defensive end since making the position switch in 2014. In the past two seasons, he has led all Redskins defensive lineman in sacks (10.5) and total tackles (101).

It would seem wise for Washington to re-sign Baker this offseason. But if they do not, the Vikings may want to consider making a run at the seven-year pro.

Next: What free-agent WRs are available in 2017?

His experience at playing on the inside and the outside of the defensive line may actually force Minnesota head coach Mike Zimmer to wear a bib with the increased amount of uncontrollable salivation that would occur when the coach would begin to think of all the ways in which he could use Baker on the field.