The Vikings have added some edge rushers to replace some of the production lost this offseason.
Minnesota lost defensive end Stephen Weatherly to the Panthers in free agency. Weatherly was a reserve for the Vikings. Everson Griffen also announced on Instagram that he was leaving the team. He hasn’t signed anywhere yet, but the team should prep for Griffen to not return.
Michigan State’s Kenny Willekes can compete for those opening spots. The Vikings took Willekes at No. 225 in the NFL Draft. My guess is that he can be a decent reserve for Minnesota.
He is the Spartans’ all-time leader in career tackles for loss with 51. He had 16 for Michigan State in 2019.
Minnesota nabbed LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson at No. 22. Then, the team chose TCU cornerback Jeff Gladney in the first round. The Vikings followed that up with Boise State tackle Ezra Cleveland in the following round.
After that Minnesota drafted Mississippi State corner Cameron Dantzler, Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch, Oregon linebacker Troy Dye, Temple corner Harrison Hand, Miami wide receiver K.J. Osborn, Oregon State offensive lineman Blake Brandel and Michigan safety Josh Metellus. The team has also made four trades during the NFL Draft.