4 most disappointing Vikings in the Week 2 loss to the Cardinals

Dalvin Tomlinson – DT

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Vikings’ 2021 season so far is where has Dalvin Tomlinson been? He was the big free-agent signing this year as the team dished out $22 million for his services. So far, they have gotten a very scant return on their investment.

Tomlinson had just one tackle in the game against the Cardinals. He was brought in to help stuff the run, and the Cardinals ran for over 100, and their lead back, Chase Edmonds, averaged 5.8 yards a touch. His cohort Michael Pierce didn’t do much either and this supposed wall of Purple has been very and unexpectedly penetrable.

It’s hard to say what needs to change for Tomlinson to start playing up to his contract. There isn’t a whole heck to scheme about when your job is to eat up blocks and clog running lanes. Tomlinson’s poor performance falls on his broad shoulders and his alone. He needs to man up and start playing like the elite-run defender he has been in the past.