Some interesting details in Vikings DT Sheldon Richardson’s new contract

There are some interesting incentives in Sheldon Richardson’s contract with the Vikings.

The Vikings reunited with Sheldon Richardson this offseason. Richardson probably won’t start 17 games for Minnesota next season, but he will be an important rotational lineman.

There are also some incentives in his contract to sweeten the deal with the Vikings. According to Ben Goessling of the Star Tribune, Richardson earns $250,000 in incentive money if he reaches five sacks, and $500,000 if he tallies seven this year.

He also earns $250,000 bonus for a Pro Bowl selection. The deal voids if Richardson is on the roster 30 days prior to 2022 league year.

In 2020, Richardson tallied 4.5 sacks in 16 starts with the Browns, so it’s kind of a long shot for him to produce more than that in what is presumably a lesser role. That said, if he can pull it off, the Vikings defensive line will be menacing.

There’s a possibility that Minnesota could go with more 3-4 this year, giving Richardson the chance to start at a 3-4 defensive end spot. That could help lead to him reaching those sack totals.