Top 10 Minnesota Vikings of 2022: Where does Justin Jefferson rank?

No. 8: Dalvin Tomlinson – DT

After signing with the Vikings last offseason, Dalvin Tomlinson put forth one of the quietest, yet most impressive seasons on the team. Among defensive tackles playing at least 50 percent of their team’s defensive snaps in 2021, Tomlinson’s PFF overall, run-defense, and pass-rush grades all ranked among the top 17 in the NFL.

The interior of the Vikings’ defensive line in 2020 was atrocious, so Tomlinson’s arrival and performance were exactly what Mike Zimmer needed.

While his pass-rushing grade was stellar, he only recorded 21 quarterback pressures, ranking 42nd among those same defensive tackles. This means that on more than one occasion, Tomlinson likely beat the man across from him, but couldn’t get to the quarterback on time, whether it be a quick pass or a teammate beating him there.

Tomlinson began his NFL career with the reputation of being a run-stuffing defender. However, as his career has progressed, his run-defense grade has dropped and his pass-rush grade has risen.

This comes at a perfect time, as the NFL becomes more and more pass-heavy, having a player like Tomlinson who doesn’t have to come off the field on third down provides value to defenses. His newfound versatility makes him one of the best men in purple entering 2022.