Mike Zimmer convinces another former Vikings player to join the Cowboys

In his first year back on the NFL sideline since he was fired in 2022 after eight seasons as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, it's no surprise that Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer is turning to some familiar faces to help him out.

Earlier this year, former Vikings linebacker Eric Kendricks decided to sign with the Cowboys and reunite with Zimmer. On Wednesday, another notable former Minnesota defender from the Zimmer era, Linval Joseph, reportedly agreed to a contract with Dallas, according to NFL insider Josina Anderson.

According to NFL Media's Mike Garafolo and Tom Pelissero, the Cowboys gave Joseph a one-year deal worth up to $4 million with $2.5 million of it guaranteed.

Linval Joseph the latest former Minnesota Vikings player to reunite with Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer

Since parting with the Vikings after the 2019 season, Joseph has bounced around the league a bit, as he's had stints with the Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. With the Bills last year, he accumulated a total of 15 tackles (one for a loss), one quarterback hit, and one sack in nine appearances (including the playoffs).

Now, he gets to play for Zimmer for the second time in his NFL career. During Joseph's first experience with the current Cowboys defensive coordinator, the talented defensive lineman was able to earn the only two Pro Bowl selections of his career. So, if anyone knows how to get the best out of Joseph, it's Zimmer.

Joseph joining Dallas, and reuniting with Kendricks as well, also chips away a little further at the narrative that Vikings players didn't enjoy working for Zimmer. Joseph, Kendricks, and former Minnesota linebacker Nick Vigil likely wouldn't have signed with the Cowboys this year if this were truly the case.

Zimmer has always been one to remain completely honest with his players, whether they like it or not. Some are able to excel with his methods of coaching, while others aren't.

For the former Vikings who are now members of Dallas's roster, they'll be hoping this season that the former Minnesota head coach can bring the best out of them once again.

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