D.J. Wonnum – OLB
D.J. Wonnum has been a sporadic pass rusher that has failed to find any sort of constant footing in the NFL. Aside from a couple of big games in his three seasons, Wonnum has been an underwhelming rusher regardless of his role.
Wonnum took a step back last season with Za’Darius Smith taking over the starting job but still, there were better players in the rotation. Patrick Jones II made tremendous strides in his second NFL season and found a way to make plays whenever he was given a chance.
The time has come for Jones II to take over the primary rotational job as the Vikings figure things out on defense. Wonnum has had his moments but it is time to find him a place to start over while giving ample opportunities to Patrick Jones II heading into his third season.
There is an argument for keeping Wonnum. This draft class is not particularly deep at his position and the money simply isn’t there for a big signing in free agency. Still, there will probably be value to replace him at some point in the offseason.
The free agency group of pass rushers has quite the depth and could be in play if Minnesota prefers that route. Brian Flores has connections around the league and players should want to join him next season.