6 free-agent outside linebackers the Vikings could sign in 2022
By Dean Jones
Which free-agent outside linebackers could the Minnesota Vikings potentially target in 2022 when the new league year begins?
With a new regime always comes big change. For the Minnesota Vikings, a complete reset at the general manager and head coach positions means it could be an incredibly eventful offseason period for fans as they await some crucial upcoming decisions before competitive action begins.
There is not much wiggle room financially for the Vikings, who need to make some significant sacrifices with early releases or potential trades to get under the cap in the coming days. Doing this without jeopardizing the team’s chances during Kevin O’Connell’s first year at the helm is going to be complex, but something that will get Kwesi Adofo-Mensah off to the best possible start following his well-deserved promotion.
Minnesota’s defense looks set to switch back to a 3-4 after Ed Donatell was appointed defensive coordinator. This adds another intriguing element to the offseason as the Vikings look to put the necessary pieces in place to make this transition go smoothly.
Anthony Barr’s status with the organization is also up in the air. The former first-round pick is looking for a new deal, and considering how spare funds are at a premium, this might be the year he officially moves on after going back on his decision to join the New York Jets the first time he hit the free-agent market.
Barr might be after more than the Vikings are willing to pay. But here are six outside linebackers the team might target when the free agency frenzy begins.