6 options for the Vikings to replace DT Michael Pierce
By Adam Patrick
Shamar Stephen
Behind Jaleel Johnson, Shamar Stephen is the next heaviest remaining defensive lineman on the Vikings roster at 309 pounds.
Last season, Stephen was Minnesota’s starting three-technique. In the past though, he’s also shown the ability to line up in the nose tackle spot.
While his versatility is good, Stephen just wasn’t very impressive for the Vikings last year. Despite starting in 15 games and being on the field for 53 percent of Minnesota’s defensive snaps last season, he only managed to rack up a total of 21 tackles (two for a loss), two quarterback hits, two quarterback pressures, and only one sack.
Typically, the three-technique defensive tackle position is for the interior lineman who provide some pass-rushing ability. Stephen didn’t really generate much of a pass rush in 2019. But maybe he would be a better fit as the Vikings new nose tackle?