How will Linval Joseph’s legacy with the Vikings be remembered?
By Dean Jones
Linval Joseph was a salary cap casualty this offseason, but how will the player’s time with the Minnesota Vikings be remembered?
The Minnesota Vikings lost a big presence on their defensive line when they released Linval Joseph. The defensive tackle was sacrificed to relieve salary cap space alongside other veteran stars who were getting paid more than their worth.
Joseph did not have to wait long before finding a new home. He penned a two-year, $17 million deal with the Los Angeles Chargers that included an $8 million signing bonus and $9.5 million guaranteed.
This was something the Vikings could not match despite their reported interest in bringing back the player on a reduced deal. Joseph leaves a huge hole both on the defense and within the locker room.
After arriving in Minnesota on a big-money deal from the New York Giants, Joseph played six seasons with the franchise and played a leading role in their success.
He had his ups and downs during his time with the Vikings. But the former second-round selection out of East Carolina can leave the organization with his head held high.
Joseph was a colossal presence and someone who probably would have remained with the franchise had their finances been in a better predicament. The Vikings brought in Mike Pierce from the Baltimore Ravens as a replacement. But it remains to be seen whether he can match the impact made by the “Big Goon”.
He was a larger than life personality and player during his time with the Vikings. But how will Joseph be remembered in years to come?