Linval Joseph’s release a necessary evil for cash-strapped Vikings
By Dean Jones
The impact of Joseph’s departure
The departure of Linval Joseph will have big implications on the Minnesota Vikings’ defensive line.
They are losing a massive part of their run defense and Joseph clogs up a lot of space up the middle. This has been one of the strengths of the Vikings in recent seasons and is going to leave this area of the field needing reinforcements.
Joseph’s influence in Minnesota is also something that cannot be underestimated. He prides himself on being a locker room leader and possesses a real ability to inspire others around him through communication and his actions on the field.
Experienced players like this are hard to find in free agency, and they do not come cheap. Joseph will not be short of offers and may find himself on a team that has a better chance of lifting a Super Bowl next season.
Joseph’s release leaves Minnesota with Shamar Stephen and Jaleel Johnson as realistic starting options for new defensive coordinator duo Andre Patterson and Adam Zimmer in 2020.
Stephen played well last season but needs a force alongside him in order to produce. Johnson has not shown many signs of this so far and it remains to be seen whether he can be an effective NFL starter if given the opportunity.
The loss of Joseph also has an adverse effect on stud defensive end tandem Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen, providing the latter is brought back on a restructured deal.