Linval Joseph’s release a necessary evil for cash-strapped Vikings
By Dean Jones
Joseph’s career in Minnesota
Linval Joseph has performed largely up to expectations during his time with the Minnesota Vikings. He was touted as someone who could shore up the defensive interior and fill the void left by Pat and Kevin Williams.
The former New York Giants player started all 16 games during his first year with the franchise. He started all 16 games during his first season with the Vikings and recorded three sacks and 48 total tackles.
The player was a commanding presence against the run and played in 67 percent of the team’s snaps. Things did not go as well in 2015 due to injury, which restricted Joseph to 12 games.
Joseph bounced back well to play every contest in 2016 and 17 on his way to 7.5 sacks, 144 tackles, and three forced fumbles. His influence waned significantly in 2018 that left some questioning his commitment to a Minnesota team that missed the playoffs.
The ten-year veteran answered his critics with an excellent 2019 campaign that resulted in three sacks, 44 tackles, and a forced fumble. He benefitted tremendously from being a two-down interior lineman for the majority of the season, which saw his snap percentage drop to 50 percent.
This allowed Joseph to stay fresh and make a real difference during downs where teams were more likely to run the ball. The Vikings have a solid defensive front rotation and this is something that proved highly beneficial for a player with a lot of mileage on the clock.