4 veterans the Vikings should target in third wave of free agency

Bruce Irvin – DE/OLB

2020 Team: Seattle Seahawks

There appears to be one more area on defense that the Vikings need to sort out before competitive action rolls around in 2021.

Getting a prolific pass-rusher to put opposite Danielle Hunter on the edge could see the team return to the form of old after an extremely disappointing campaign that stemmed from veteran departures, injuries, and Michael Pierce’s COVID-19 opt-out.

The temptation to address this need early in the 2021 NFL Draft is obvious. But if the Vikings choose to go down the veteran route, then someone like Bruce Irvin could be targeted at a bargain-basement price.

Irvin only appeared in two games for the Seattle Seahawks in 2020 due to a knee injury, which was a real blow to their chances. He is set to make a full recovery in time for training camp this summer, and considering the state of affairs for veterans this offseason, Minnesota should be able to get him at a minimal cost.

Before his injury, Irvin recorded 8.5 sacks with the Carolina Panthers in 2019. Considering the speculation regarding Eric Wilson and the fact that he may not return, adding some experience to the depth chart from a pass-rushing perspective would be a good move by the Vikings front office.

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Irvin may be heading into the twilight of his career. But providing there are no lingering effects from his ACL injury, the former West Virginia star should be fresh and raring to go.