4 bombshell trades the Minnesota Vikings could make before Week 1
By Dean Jones
Kawann Short – DT
The Minnesota Vikings were dealt a blow when Michael Pierce opted out of the 2020 season due to health concerns surrounding COVID-19. While he should not be criticized for putting his wellbeing over football, it has left a gaping hole on their defensive line interior next season.
Pierce was their most prominent free-agent arrival on defense. The Vikings might be content with Jaleel Johnson and Shamar Stephen as the defensive tackle tandem going into the campaign. But there is a possible alternative that might be available in a trade.
Kawann Short is one of the few veteran players remaining on the Carolina Panthers. He has made a return to full health following a torn rotator cuff that restricted him to only two games in 2019. And he represents an intriguing option for any contending team.
The Pro Bowler has been a dominant force either on the interior or the edge during his time in Carolina. Short is a stout proposition to move off the block and he has proven more than capable of getting into the opposition’s backfield consistently.
There is a financial aspect to consider if Short becomes a player of interest. The lineman is set to make $24.5 million over the final two years of his deal. But if the Vikings remain intent on harboring postseason ambitions, more might be needed at the position.
The Panthers are in the first year of a substantial rebuild. Short remains an important player for the organization but attaining more draft capital would be an enticing proposition for them.