The Vikings are reportedly nearing a deal to bring veteran defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson back to Minnesota, where he played in 2018.
That move happened to create $3.73 million in cap space for 2021 because some of Hunter’s base salary was converted to signing bonus money, so then they went out and appear set to land Richardson.
Richardson, assuming he signs, will join Dalvin Tomlinson, Michael Pierce, Patrick Peterson, Bashaud Breeland, Xavier Woods, Mackensie Alexander, Stephen Weatherly, and Nick Vigil as new members of this Vikings defense.
A 3-4 front with Richardson, Pierce, and Tomlinson up front and Hunter and Anthony Barr as OLBs would be very intriguing as well.
Richardson hasn’t recorded fewer than 36 pressures in a season since his rookie year, and has never had a PFF grade below 69.
It’ll be very interesting to see how Zimmer and Andre Patterson divvy out snaps on the defensive line, but there will be plenty of playing time to be found for someone as talented and experienced as Richardson.
Zimmer will be able to rotate guys in and out on the defensive line and in the secondary so they stay fresh and can play at a high level all game long.
Wonnum, and rookies Patrick Jones II and Janarius Robinson, but that’s the only spot that doesn’t appear to have a very solid starter in place.