6 free-agent outside linebackers the Vikings could sign in 2022
By Dean Jones
Haason Reddick
2021 Team: Carolina Panthers
In a somewhat surprising move, the Carolina Panthers are reportedly going to let Haason Reddick test the free-agent market. The outside linebacker was an absolute revelation after reuniting with his former college coach Matt Rhule in 2021, gaining 11 sacks and providing a spark opposite Brian Burns that was sorely lacking previously.
Reddick now has 23.5 sacks over the last two seasons and deserves to be paid accordingly. His ability to provide assistance against the run is also something that shouldn’t be overlooked, and if the Minnesota Vikings decided to let Anthony Barr walk, then this appears to be a ready-made replacement.
The former first-round pick deserves an endless amount of credit for backing himself last spring by signing a one-year, team-friendly deal in an uncertain financial climate. Reddick more than proved his 2020 season with the Arizona Cardinals wasn’t a one-off and there should be a queue of suitors looking to acquire his services when the legal tampering period begins.
This might be a little rich for the Vikings considering their salary-cap complications right now. But that’s not to say they couldn’t make a splash or two with contract restructures or trades in the coming days.
Reddick is also a supreme leader within the locker room. Something the Vikings could use if key veterans are sacrificed.