5 players the Vikings were right to move on from in 2022

Anthony Barr – LB

This was arguably the most difficult decision on defense during the offseason. Anthony Barr has been synonymous with the Vikings from the moment he became a first-round pick in 2014, and although he almost left for the New York Jets once upon a time, his close affinity with the organization is renowned.

There is absolutely no denying Barr’s talent. He is a four-time Pro Bowler that has the potential to completely shift the course of a game when firing on all cylinders.

However, availability is fast becoming a valued trait across the league. Something that no doubt impacted the team’s decision to move on from Barr this spring.

The former UCLA stud featured just 11 times in 2021 and on 13 occasions over the last two seasons. Not exactly ideal for a team that was significantly missing some outside linebacker depth during Mike Zimmer’s final campaign.

As stated previously, Minnesota is shifting to a 3-4 defensive scheme with Danielle Hunter and Za’Darius Smith as their expected rushers. This left Barr on the outside looking in and the concerns about his durability leave the player still searching for a new home.

Barr might get signed quickly now the draft has concluded. But there is also a slight chance Minnesota can also bring him back on a team-friendly deal depending on how their new college recruits adjust.