6 free-agent defensive tackles the Vikings could sign in 2020
By Dean Jones
The Minnesota Vikings could be on the lookout for a cheaper alternative at defensive tackle this offseason, but who should be on their radar?
It is a pivotal offseason for the Minnesota Vikings, in particular on the defensive side of the football.
Salary cap problems will likely prevent the Vikings from making any considerable improvements during the next few months. A number of experienced players are expected to be released as well to make room for some younger and cheaper options.
One of Minnesota’s veteran players who could on their way out this offseason is Linval Joseph. If the Vikings trade or release Joseph this year, they would free up over $10 million in cap space.
That is a savings amount Minnesota may not be able to overlook despite Joseph performing well last season. He managed to bounce back from a poor 2018 campaign to record 44 tackles and three sacks in 2019.
Joseph restored his reputation as a stout run stuffer and he allowed the Vikings defensive end duo of Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen to thrive in their respective roles. It will be a blow if Joseph is shown the door this year. But it might be a move that is necessary for Minnesota to give them more room to maneuver in the salary cap.
Fellow Vikings defensive tackle Shamar Stephen has solidified his position as an every-down starter and he performed well last season. Jaleel Johnson is another improving defensive tackle that is set to likely see more of the field in 2020.
There is also the prospect of a high pick coming in via the 2020 NFL Draft that could provide an injection of energy. But if Minnesota wants to add another defensive tackle before the draft, who are some of the free-agent options they might consider this year?