Vikings See a Young, Ascending Talent Stolen Away
Not too many success stories from 2022 for the Vikings, folks. Rather, lots of regret and whiffs. Punter Ryan Wright stands out as one of the lonely exceptions.
Mr. Wright, as he’s affectionately called by Matt Daniels, will be journeying to New Orleans. Consider the word from ESPN’s Adam Schefter: “Another big punter deal: Former Vikings punter Ryan Wright is signing a four-year, $14 million deal that includes $8 million guaranteed with the Saints, per source.”
Vikings Lose Punter Ryan Wright
During the season, I had the good fortune of chatting with Wright. He expressed a desire to remain with the Vikings.
The Vikings, quite evidently, don’t feel the same way.
Admittedly, I’m not privy to behind-closed-doors conversations, so take the assessment with a grain of salt. What we can nevertheless conclude with some confidence is that money reigns in the NFL. Wanting Wright would involve giving him a deal that matches or exceeds what the Saints offered.
The 25-year-old specialist is coming off a great season.
In seventeen games, Wright launched 65 punts for 3,184 yards. The 49.0 yards-per-punt average was the best of his career. Likewise, the 44.5 net-yards-per-punt average is a career best. He had a trio of touchbacks but 25 that got dropped inside the 20.
Just a rock-solid effort from the punter who is an imposing 6’3″ and 245 pounds. For whatever it’s worth, Wright played quarterback in his past, better equipping him for the occasional trick play.
Minnesota will now need a new starter at punter. Consider, as well, that Will Reichard will have a new holder. Not a major deal, just something to tuck away in the back of your mind. Holding isn’t important until there’s a mistake. The Vikings will need to find a solution here.
Special teams coordinator Matt Daniels isn’t perfect but he’s very good. In fact, he doesn’t get the credit he deserves. Pushing Wright to develop is nice work. He’ll now need to work his magic on someone else.
More to come.
Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Reference and Over the Cap helped with this piece.
