Linebacker
If the Minnesota Vikings’ cut Anthony Barr here in the coming weeks or days, they’ll definitely use an early pick at the linebacker position, but that’s probably not going to happen. Barr’s presence on the defense was sorely missed last year as players like Todd Davis lacked the physical ability to make the types of plays that Barr can.
Barr is excellent in coverage, but he also has the speed to contain backs on the outside and force them back to where there is help. He also was Mike Zimmer’s first draft choice, and the fact he reneged on the New York Jets to come back to the Vikings shows there is a mutual love between player and team. Spielman also stated that he doesn’t want to commit more money to the linebacker position, so investing in a first-round linebacker like Micah Parsons seems unlikely.
What is more likely to happen is that the Vikings bring Barr back at a reduced cost and then roll with Troy Dye as the starter on the weakside. Dye got some experience in 2020 but needs to add some bulk to his frame. If he can come back heavier and stronger, perhaps he can make some more plays.
5 potential landing spots for Kyle Rudolph this offseason
With the Minnesota Vikings deciding to release tight end Kyle Rudolph on Tuesday, who are some of the NFL teams that could sign him?
The Minnesota Vikings can also utilize undrafted rookie Blake Lynch, who showed promise in spot duty, and they would be wise to bring back the aforementioned Davis, who did play well when forced into action before he was familiar with Zimmer’s system. Linebacker is a need that should be addressed in the future, but it definitely doesn’t need this year.