Has Rick Spielman’s free agency start boosted his contract hopes?
By Dean Jones
The free-agent signing
New faces have been at a premium for the Minnesota Vikings so far in free agency. Tying down more established members of the roster with the little money there is available was a bigger priority.
They did manage to secure one notable acquisition in the form of defensive tackle Michael Pierce from the Baltimore Ravens. A three-year deal worth $27 million ($18m guaranteed) was enough to tempt the player away from a leading AFC contender.
This is another shrewd move from the Vikings, who also have an out if things do not go according to plan with Pierce in 2020. Releasing the player in 2021 will represent a saving of $5.1 million that is an intriguing proposition if he underperforms in a new environment.
Pierce seems a ready-made replacement for Linval Joseph, although he is only a two-down lineman. He is a significant force in run defense and this will be crucial to any success the Vikings are going to have next season.
Given the amount of pass-rushing potential surrounding Pierce, little will be expected of him from that perspective. What they do require is a commanding and energetic presence at the point of attack in running downs. Judging by his play in Baltimore, this is something the player is more than capable of.
This is a low risk, high reward signing for the Vikings and one that represents good business. If Pierce plays up to the level he is capable of, Minnesota will have the player during the best years of his prime. If performances are not up to standard then he can be moved on after one season.