Ten-year defensive tackle Linval Joseph has signed a two year deal worth $17 million with the Los Angeles Chargers.
The #Chargers have improved their offensive line in free agency, now beef up their defensive line. https://t.co/smwbvyubeE
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 18, 2020
Linval Joseph Signs With
Joseph spent the past six seasons of his career with the Minnesota Vikings. The first free agent acquisition of the Mike Zimmer era prior to the 2014 season, Joseph’s first year got off to a rocky start when he was shot in the leg as an innocent bystander following a preseason game. He still managed to accumulate three sacks while starting in all 16 games.
In 2015 Joseph became recognized as one of the league’s premiere interior forces. Against the St. Louis Rams, Joseph registered 10 tackles and earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for the performance. He earned his first Pro Bowl invitation in 2016 as he picked up four sacks and three forced fumbles. The Vikings would end up finishing the season ranked fourth in total defense.
Joseph once again was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2017 as he registered 3.5 sacks on the league’s top-ranked defense. Led by their strong defense, the Vikings advanced to the NFC Championship game. He followed this up in 2018 with another strong season where he racked up 3.5 sacks. Joseph also recorded his first career touchdown when he plucked the ball out of the air on a 64-yard fumble recovery from Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz.
Before joining the Vikings, Joseph was drafted in the second round by the New York Giants in the 2010 NFL Draft. After only appearing in six games during his rookie season, Joseph played in all 16 games in 2011, while starting 15 of those games. Recording two sacks over the course of the season, Joseph and the Giants ended the season by winning Super Bowl XLVI. Joseph would start 31 of 32 games in 2012 and 2013, recording seven sacks during that time.
Over the course of his career, Joseph has recorded 24 sacks, eight forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and one touchdown. He has also played in nine playoff games.
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