Minnesota Vikings Off-Season Needs: Linebacker
Nov 16, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Vikings outside linebacker Chad Greenway (52) and cornerback
Captain Munnerlyn(24) after Munnerlyn broke up a touchdown pass at Soldier Field. The Bears won 21-13. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Anthony Barr was a revelation as a rookie and will be locked into one of the starting linebacker positions going into the 2015 season. Everything else is up in the air.
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The Greenway decision looms large over the franchise right now. He is one of the best Vikings of the last generation and has always been a leader. That said, his play has slipped considerably since he has moved beyond 30 years of age. The most disappointing plays he had last season were when he got caught looking at the sideline on the snap in crucial moments late in games against the Buffalo Bills and Green Bay Packers. He took a $1 million paycut last off-season and will undoubtedly be expected to take another if he is to return. He is slated to make $8.8 million this year but if he is cut before June 1st the Vikings would save $7.7 million against the cap.
Audie Cole has played well in limited snaps and Gerald Hodges has shown some positive signs as well. There is talent here already but I would be shocked if the Vikings do not look to bring more linebackers in.
The next place they may look is free agency.
Next: Free Agency