The revenge game no one is talking about heading into Vikings vs. Browns

Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson will have something to prove on Sunday when he goes up against his former team, the Cleveland Browns.

Following the conclusion of the 2018 season as a member of the Minnesota Vikings, Sheldon Richardson decided to take his talents to the AFC North and sign with the Cleveland Browns.

Richardson performed well for the Browns in 2019 and 2020. But this past offseason, Cleveland decided to part ways with the veteran defensive tackle and his 2021 cap hit of more than $13 million.

The Browns reportedly had interest in re-signing Richardson to a cheaper deal this year, but instead, he opted to return to Minnesota to sign with a different team that he was already familiar with.

Expect Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson to be extra motivated to face the Cleveland Browns

We’ve been hearing all week about the return of Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski to Minnesota, a franchise that employed him as an assistant for more than a decade. But not much has been said about Richardson going up against a Browns team that didn’t think he was worth the money left on his contract.

The Vikings released their final Week 4 injury report on Friday and starting nose tackle Michael Pierce is listed as questionable with injuries to his elbow and shoulder.

If Pierce is unable to go on Sunday, Richardson is likely going to see a lot more time on the field, meaning he will have more chances to make Cleveland regret letting him go this past offseason.

With Minnesota so far this season, Richardson has accumulated two tackles, two quarterback hits, and three pressures while being on the field for 39 percent of the team’s defensive snaps.

The veteran Vikings defensive tackle is very familiar with his opponent on Sunday, especially the guys in the trenches. Richardson will have the opportunity to take on the Browns’ offensive linemen that he faced during every practice session in Cleveland last year.

If Pierce can’t suit up this weekend, Minnesota will be hoping that Richardson will be able to use his familiarity with Cleveland’s blockers to his advantage, and help lead his current team to a win.