4 reasons the Vikings remain in win-now mode under new regime
By Dean Jones
Vikings convinced Smith to sign
The Minnesota Vikings pulled off a major coup by signing Za’Darius Smith in free agency, who has tormented his new team for years with the Green Bay Packers. This was an absolute bombshell in no uncertain terms, although the presence of his former linebackers coach obviously swayed the player to switch from a fierce divisional rival.
This is another sign that the Vikings are going to pull out all the stops next season. A player of Smith’s caliber has to be convinced Minnesota is capable of challenging at this stage of his career, which he clearly feels is possible given how much backlash he is likely to get from the Green Bay fanbase who once cheered him on.
Smith is going to bring a significant amount to the Vikings. His pass-rushing tandem with Danielle Hunter has the potential to wreak havoc, and if both remain healthy, there aren’t many offensive lines in the NFL that can prevent them from getting into the backfield consistently.
There is a chance this bold signing may not work out. Smith has plenty of doubters after the two-time Pro Bowler appeared just once last season, which should be all the motivation he needs for a bounce-back campaign.
The upside is there for all to see. Something that further indicates Minnesota fancies their chances in 2022.