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Impact of Michael Pierce opt out on the Minnesota Vikings defense

By Nik Edlund

BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 29: Michael Pierce #97 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts to a play during the second half of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 29: Michael Pierce #97 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts to a play during the second half of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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New Minnesota Vikings DT Michael Pierce
Michael Pierce of the Baltimore Ravens (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Michael Pierce put his health first and opted out of the 2020 season. Here is how his decision affects the Minnesota Vikings defense this season.

In what was heartbreaking news for the Minnesota Vikings and their fans, the team’s big free-agent signing, nose tackle Michael Pierce, opted out of playing during the 2020 season. Apparently, he has asthma and is considered high risk if he were to contract COVID-19. While he should be applauded for putting his health first, this move definitely affects the Vikings in a negative way.

The team now has to play without Linval Joseph who they cut, and Michael Pierce who has opted out. This will move backups into starter roles and jeopardizes the overall strength of the Vikings defense.

Mike Zimmer is a smart man and will shuffle his defense to put the best 11 men out there. We could see some players in new roles, and some different looks this season to try to make up for the loss. Here is how Michael Pierce’s decision to opt-out of the upcoming season affects the 2020 Minnesota Vikings’ defense.

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