What’s next for Riley Reiff and the Vikings heading into free agency?
By Dean Jones
Reiff’s production with Minnesota
Riley Reiff overcame some early struggles with the Vikings to become a vital cog on their offensive line.
After a big-money switch from an NFC North rival, the 31-year-old took his time to settle in his new surroundings, which left some uncertainty about whether Minnesota giving him so much money was the right move.
Reiff has made great strides over the last two seasons in the way he has performed on the field and how he has integrated himself as a key leader. He did allow five sacks in 2019, but the offensive tackle also bought Kirk Cousins more time in the pocket against some outstanding pass-rushers on the schedule.
His run blocking also showed a marked improvement that contributed heavily to an outstanding year for Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. Although the Vikings offensive line struggled mightily last season, Reiff’s performance on the outside was largely encouraging.
In terms of his production on the field, there is little doubt that Minnesota needs someone with the experience of Reiff. He still possesses quick feet and he has enough power to cope with the rigors of the position.
Reiff still has some solid years ahead of him providing he stays free of injury. He would be a big loss to a Minnesota offensive line that has been the catalyst behind their downfall on more than one occasion during the last decade.
Given the improvement of right tackle Brian O’Neill last season, the tackle position was an area of strength for the Vikings in 2019 and not weakness.