Minnesota Vikings sign free-agent defensive end Lawrence Jackson
By Nam Huynh
Nov 11, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions defensive end Lawrence Jackson (94) against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Lions 34-24. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
The Minnesota Vikings agreed to a one-year deal with free-agent defensive end Lawrence Jackson Thursday night, according to multiple reports.
Jackson confirmed the agreement on Twitter:
"“I look forward to the opportunity to play for the Vikings and I’m blessed for the chance to continue to grow as a player,” Jackson tweeted."
Jackson, 27, was a first-round pick of the Seattle Seahawks in 2008 out of USC. He has 19.5 career sacks through five seasons, with a career-best six sacks while with the Lions in 2010.
The signing of Jackson is somewhat surprising considering the significant depth they have at the end positions. Jared Allen, Brian Robison and Everson Griffen all figure to be a big part of the team’s defense this season.