Jasper Brinkely signs with Minnesota Vikings
Jasper Brinkley (52) looks on after the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
It’s been a huge day for the Minnesota Vikings organization, as they re-signed defensive end Everson Griffen to a five-year deal worth $42.5 million that includes a massive $20 million in guaranteed money. They also made a smaller move, as a source tells FOX Sports’s Mike Garafolo that the Vikings have signed free agent linebacker Jasper Brinkely to a one-year deal.
Brinkely is now reunited with the Vikings and the man who drafted him (GM Rick Spielman), and he took a pair free agent visits before ultimately deciding to sign a one-year pact with the Vikings. Not only did he work out with the Vikings a couple of days ago, but the 28-year-old inside linebacker also received interest from the Arizona Cardinals.
His best season came in 2012, which was the last of his three seasons with the Vikings, as he recorded 98 tackles and three fumbles forced. He was released this offseason after spending just one year with the Arizona Cardinals, and he was a bit player in the desert with just 27 tackles and one pass defended. Brinkely is a quality player in run defense, but he’s horrible in coverage and is best suited as a top backup and special teams contributor.