What to expect from new Vikings defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson

What to expect from Sheldon Richardson in 2021

It’s hard to know exactly what Sheldon Richardson will do for the Minnesota Vikings without knowing exactly what roles he will play in the defense. At the very least, the purple and gold got themselves a strong pass rusher to use situationally and generate pressure up the middle. At the most, Minnesota could move Richardson around the defensive line and get him more snaps, especially if the pass rush opposite Danielle Hunter lacks effectiveness in 2021.

Using him in both roles could result in big success, including a handful of pressures each game to add up to around 40 or so on the season and result in about five sacks thanks to opposing offenses needing to stay honest, thanks to Hunter and Pierce.

Richardson will keep Tomlinson fresh and allow him to be even more effective as a run stuffer. Making the team’s defense as a whole stronger against the run as well as generating pressure up front.

Sadly, this will likely be a one-year rental for the Minnesota Vikings since Richardson has a good chance of flourishing under this coaching staff in a smaller role and earning a bigger contract after the 2021 season by signing with a team that needs a lot more help on the defensive line.

What do you expect from Sheldon Richardson during the 2021 NFL season? Do you anticipate less or more than what is listed above? Let us hear your thoughts in the comments section.