NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport recently reported that Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen will be re-signing with the club on a five-year deal. And as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, it’s expected to be a $42.5 million contract with $20 million in guaranteed money.
It’s a great move for Minnesota obviously. With the Vikings, Griffen has put up 17.5 sacks, 85 combined tackles, and an interception for a touchdown. In 2013, he put up a career high in combined tackles with 28, and also had 5.5 sacks on the year.
Minnesota ranked 31st in total defense in 2013 (gave up 6345 yards) and last in points per game allowed (30.0), so it’ll be important for the program to build around guys players like Everson Griffen who are getting the job done. New head coach Mike Zimmer built an excellent Cincinnati Bengals defense during his time in Ohio as the defensive coordinator, so under his supervision, we could see other players stepping up as much as Griffen did for the Vikings.
Zimmer will also need to attact more talent to his club, and there are rumors that some of the Bengals free agents may want to re-unite with their former coach in the twin cities. An injection of some defensive talent would provide a major boost for the Vikings.
Needless to say, it’s the first step in what is likely going to be a very busy off-season in The Land of a Thousand Lakes.
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(Stats via espn.com)
