Predicting where the Vikings free agents will land in 2021

Eric Wilson – LB

Prediction: Signs with Cincinnati Bengals

Thanks to injuries, Eric Wilson ended up starting in 15 games for the Vikings in 2020. Wilson easily had the best season of his career since entering the NFL in 2017 as he led Minnesota in tackles with 122 while he also accumulated 10 pressures, nine quarterback hits, eight pass breakups, three interceptions, three sacks, and one forced fumble.

Due to his performance in 2020, Wilson’s price tag is likely going to be too high for the Vikings to bring him back this year. Minnesota isn’t expected to have much cap space in 2021 and Wilson probably won’t be agreeing to any sort of hometown discount to return to the Twin Cities.

Plus, Anthony Barr will be returning from injury for the Vikings in 2021 and because of this, Wilson would likely see his playing time decrease if he decided to return to the team for next season. Instead, he will probably be looking to land with a team that will give him the opportunity to be a starter in 2021.

Last year, two former Minnesota defenders, Trae Waynes and Mackensie Alexander, decided to sign with the Bengals. Cincinnati is where Wilson spent his college career and it wouldn’t be shocking if he returned to the area in 2021 as a member of the Bengals.