NFL Spin Zone
Fansided

3 Vikings free agents that could follow Mike Zimmer if he’s fired

By Sayre Bedinger

NFL Free Agents; Minnesota Vikings outside linebacker Anthony Barr (55) directs the defense against the Los Angeles Rams during the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
NFL Free Agents; Minnesota Vikings outside linebacker Anthony Barr (55) directs the defense against the Los Angeles Rams during the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 3
Next
Minnesota Vikings
Nov 21, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) and Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson (90) in action at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Sheldon Richardson, defensive line

If Mike Zimmer is out as Vikings head coach, wherever he heads next would be a potential landing spot for former first-round pick Sheldon Richardson on the defensive line.

Richardson, who is 31 this season, has racked up 13 QB hits in his second stint as a member of the Minnesota Vikings.

Although he’s more of a part-time player at this stage of his career, Richardson is capable of playing at a high level in a one-year vacuum and would be a valuable asset for depth pretty much anywhere he lands as a free agent in 2022.

In addition to his 13 QB hits this season, Richardson had 18 quarterback pressures. Even though he only has 2.5 sacks, his ability to get to the quarterback is still there.

There’s no doubt that Richardson did not live up to the potential we saw in him back in his earlier days with the New York Jets, but he’s been a very solid player and obviously, he is someone that Mike Zimmer likes and trusts on that defensive line.

Especially if Zimmer gets hired on by a playoff contender, Richardson makes sense to follow him where he goes for necessary depth.

Home/Minnesota Vikings