4 reasons why the Minnesota Vikings GM opening is unappealing
By Luke Parrish
Minnesota’s defense is not what it once was
For a long time, the Vikings were known for their defensive prowess. The last two seasons have been quite the opposite as the defensive unit has been the cause of decline as the offense began doing all the heavy lifting.
Veterans like Harrison Smith, Eric Kendricks, and Anthony Barr have done their best to keep the defense on the right track, but they have all taken a step back. While they are all still good players, they are on the wrong side of 30 with a clear decline in their abilities since 2019. It also does not help that they are the only starter-level players on the defense.
Danielle Hunter was on pace to be one of the best pass rushers the league has ever seen, but injuries have essentially cut his career short by two full seasons. With a huge cap hit heading his way moving forward, the Vikings will probably look into moving him in some capacity.
Patrick Peterson had a solid first season with the Vikings in 2020, but his deal was only for one season. If he is not retained, the Vikings will have no starting-caliber cornerbacks, a depleted linebacking core, and a front four that features no proven pass rushers.
There is a ton of work that needs to e done on the defensive side of the ball before the Vikings can be taken seriously as contenders in the NFC.