4 players that better not return to the Vikings in 2021

Dakota Dozier – LG

Finding a positive word to describe the performance of Dakota Dozier in 2020 is extremely difficult. Dozier was one of the worst offensive linemen in the entire NFL this past season and yet, it didn’t stop the Vikings from leaving him in the starting lineup for all 16 of their games.

After being used sparingly in 2019, Minnesota decided to bring Dozier back for the 2020 season. Most figured he would just continue his role as a backup offensive lineman, but then he emerged as the team’s starting left guard.

There was a bit of optimism before the season about Dozier taking over at left guard for the Vikings, but it was likely just because it was someone different in the role other than Pat Elflein. Minnesota quickly learned that Elflein looked like Steve Hutchinson out on the field compared to Dozier.

Dozier had a terrible performance during the 2020 season that saw him get flagged for nine penalties, give up six sacks, and allow a quarterback pressure on eight percent of his pass-blocking snaps.

He will be hitting free agency this offseason and there is absolutely no reason for the Vikings to re-sign him. There are zero benefits for Minnesota to bring Dozier back for 2021, even as a backup.