Vikings Fail to Make a Splash as New League Year Begins

K. Joudry |

Mar 16, 2022

Mar 1, 2022; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Minnesota Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah talks to the media during the 2022 NFL Combine. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Some were hoping for news of a big-time signing. Others thought there would be restructures or cuts. Instead, we received re-confirmation that Harrison Phillips is coming to town and then the news that the team is bringing in Johnny Mundt at tight end.

If you’re wondering who Mundt is, don’t feel bad.

For five years, he has been a depth tight end for the Rams. He only played 6 games last year. In the process, he played in 51% of the team’s special teams snaps and then added one catch for 9 yards.

The #Vikings have agreed to terms with TE Johnny Mundt (@jmundt83).

????: https://t.co/pnctyW2T6L pic.twitter.com/axgWBAtbNN
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) March 16, 2022

Previously, he played in every game in the 2020 season, getting in on 61% of the special teams snaps. That year involved him snagging 4 receptions for 53 yards.

His 2022 hit is for the veteran minimum. He only has $200,000 fully guaranteed.

Reunites with Kevin O'Connell and Wes Phillips. Did well as a rotational in-line tight end with the Rams, grading out twice among the top 15 run-blocking TEs there.

Fills a nice hole with Conklin and Herndon likely departing and Zach Davidson being more of a move tight end. https://t.co/T8qoZsXPvC
— Nick Olson (@NickOlsonNFL) March 16, 2022

Meanwhile, we’ve seen the news emerge that Za’Darius has been signed for a mere $35 million over 4 years. Plus, Chandler Jones ended up going to the Raiders, meaning the options at EDGE are growing increasingly thin. This reality will be very, very disappointing to a lot of fans.

The Vikings knew that the deadline was today, and they likely want to restructure the deals of several of their vets. Rather than do so proactively, they’ve instead opted to leave things as they are. In so doing, making moves at this stage appears to be needlessly complicated. Of course, this could all be in line with Kwesi’s overall philosophy, one that intentionally slow plays things.

Johnny Mundt may end up being an excellent depth player. Championship teams need players who can block on offense and be a terror on special teams. That said, championship teams also need elite talent. So far, the Vikings have been hesitant to bring this type of talent in through free agency.

Purple PTSD Also Read: How Adam Thielen Earned His Spot in Minnesota

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