Could Linval Joseph be returning to the Vikings in 2022?

(Photo by Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports) Linval Joseph
(Photo by Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports) Linval Joseph

Former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Linval Joseph recently posted a video of himself at his old team’s practice facility. Could he be returning in 2022?

During his six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Linval Joseph was one of the most dominant defensive tackles in the entire NFL. The 6-foot-4, 329-pound Joseph was a big part (pun intended) of the Vikings’ defensive success under former head coach Mike Zimmer.

During the last two seasons, however, he has suited up for the Los Angeles Chargers. Joseph was solid for the Chargers, starting a total of 28 games, and finishing with at least 55 tackles in each of his two years with the team.

Currently, Joseph is a free agent, so he is still without a team for the 2022 season. It’s possible that the 33-year-old defensive tackle might have already played his last season in the league. If not though, could a return to Minnesota be in his future?

Linval Joseph posts a video at the Minnesota Vikings practice facility

On Wednesday, Joseph shared a story on his Instagram account of him on the campus of the TCO Performance Center, which is where the Vikings hold their practices and training camp.

What was Joseph doing at Minnesota’s practice facilities?

His story showed him observing the setup for the upcoming Granite Games, which is a CrossFit competition that begins on Friday at TCO Stadium. Was he helping with the setup? Was he observing the setup as he worked out in the Vikings’ weight room?

Did Joseph meet with Minnesota about a possible role on the team’s roster for the 2022 season? Could he be returning to the franchise where he became a two-time Pro Bowler?

Joseph’s NFL career is definitely nearing the end, but he might still have an interest in continuing to play in 2022. If he’s not too expensive, should the Vikings consider signing him?

He would certainly help improve Minnesota’s depth in the middle of their defensive line. The Vikings are already set with Dalvin Tomlinson and Harrison Phillips as two of their starting interior defensive linemen. Armon Watts is currently penciled in as the third starter, but could Minnesota be interested in exploring other options for that spot?

Joseph’s Instagram story could just turn out to be nothing. But for now, it’s definitely something worth keeping an eye on.

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