Vikings’ Rush Defense Could go from Worst to First

Minnesota’s rush defense was absolutely abysmal in 2020. They couldn’t stop a nosebleed, it was terrible. The Vikings’ were constantly worn out because they couldn’t get off the field. The likes of Jaleel Johnson, Shemar Stephen, Jalyn Holmes, and others was very underwhelming. The worst part of the season was when Alvin Kamara rushed for SIX! touchdowns against the Vikings on Christmas Day. The Vikings run defense is set to be very improved for 2021.

They Added “Beef”

The #1 main reason their run stopping will be improved, is because they added some monsters in the interior. Michael Pierce was an addition last off-season, but opted out due to the pandemic. Pierce is an elite run stuffer, and should thrive in this defense. The other addition is Dalvin Tomlinson, who is also terrific at plugging up gaps. The addition of this duo will do wonders for a porous defensive line from 2020.

The Vikings also drafted Jaylen Twyman, who is known for rushing the passer, but has the ability to be a disruptor in the backfield. Add in depth like Armon Watts, and the Vikings are little pretty good in the middle.

The Beast is Back

Image courtesy of Vikings.com

Danielle Hunter is returning, and is set to be better than ever. Hunter is said to be 100%, but we won’t know for sure until we see him on the football field. Hunter is notorious for rushing the quarterback, but he is actually very underrated in stopping the run. The two-time All-Pro is actually in the top ten percent in run stopping percentage at his position. If the Vikings can get high level play from their other defensive end, the sky is the limit for this defensive line. DJ Wonnum or one of the two rookies could really make a difference on a line full of studs. With the combination of two premier run stuffers, and a superstar defensive end, this defense is set to be very dangerous in 2021. Good luck running the ball on these guys.

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