Vikings get B- grade for free agency moves so far
Minnesota managed a tough 2021 salary cap situation in order to make moves in free agency.
Most notably, the Vikings have brought in CB Patrick Peterson and DT Dalvin Tomlinson, both of whom should be a boost to the defense next season.
Though age is a concern for Peterson and stylistic fit is a concern for Tomlinson, CBS Sports thinks that Minnesota has done an OK job this offseason. The outlet gave the Vikings a B- grade for their free agency period so far. Here’s what Cody Benjamin of the outlet wrote:
“Much like their QB, the Vikings have built a recent reputation for being good enough to get to the playoffs, but not good enough to make it much further. Their moves this offseason don’t exactly spell a shift from that trend, as we’ve got a lot of part-swapping going on as opposed to clear upgrades. On their face, though, the decisions are fairly respectable. Rudolph and Reiff were due for fresh starts, and both Tomlinson and Peterson are perfect additions to Mike Zimmer’s defense. The former is a prototypical gap-plugging force up front, and Peterson, while no longer in All-Pro form, brings a steady hand to a young secondary.”
The Vikings letting go of Rudolph was not surprising, but getting rid of Reiff could cause a ripple effect for the offense. Reiff solidified the left tackle spot on an already shaky Minnesota offensive line. Without him, the offense could give up more pressures and the offense could be less successful. Maybe the improved defense will be able to make a difference.
