5 Vikings role players who can thrive under the new regime in 2022
By Dean Jones
Harrison Phillips – DL
As stated previously, the Vikings are turning to Ed Donatell’s 3-4 defense in pursuit of progression next season. This should assist some established veterans on the roster, with many other youngsters also looking to stake a claim in front of a new coaching staff before Week 1.
One potential arrival that’s going overlooked is Harrison Phillips. The versatile lineman signed a three-year, $19.5 million deal with a $7 million signing bonus and $12.9 million guaranteed after thriving on a rotational basis with the Buffalo Bills, so there could be even more on the way with increased responsibilities in Minnesota.
Phillips does all the little things well. His stout presence against the run will be a huge lift and there are times when Stanford product can generate pressure when opportunities arise.
One expects Phillips to line up as a 3-4 defensive end alongside Dalvin Tomlinson when competitive games commence. There should be a relatively inexperienced presence on the opposite side of this duo, so the former third-round pick’s know-how of what it takes can be a significant positive heading into the season.
Whether Phillips, who turned out in 55 percent of Buffalo’s defensive snaps in 2021, can raise his production with additional time on the field will be the key element to all of this. If he can, then expect the new regime to benefit enormously.