6 best Minnesota Vikings newcomers of 2023
By Adam Carlson
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Best Minnesota Vikings newcomer No. 4
Ivan Pace Jr., linebacker
An undrafted free agent signing, expectations were low but hopes were high that Ivan Pace Jr. could work hard and make the 53-man roster of the Minnesota Vikings as a rookie. He has exceeded anyone's expectations for him this season.
Pace has played in all 14 games for the Vikings this season, starting 10 of those contests. He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts in a shutout victory against the Los Vegas Raiders.
Currently at 77 tackles on the season, Ivan Pace Jr. has found a home in Minnesota's defense. A replacement for the departing Eric Kendricks, Pace has the potential to be a long-term answer at linebacker for the Vikings.
The 23-year-old Ohio native and Cincinnati Bearcats product has carved a great role for himself in the Minnesota Vikings' defense, especially when next to Jordan Hicks. He is truly a diamond in the rough for the team this season.