The Minnesota Vikings have lost star quarterback Kirk Cousins and defensive end Danielle Hunter this offseason in free agency, and they therefore could use some pass-rushing help.
They signed Jonathan Greenard and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, but combined, they may not be enough to fill the void of Hunter, a four-time Pro Bowler.
Per Jordan Schultz, the Vikings will be meeting with free-agent linebacker Jihad Ward.
Free agent LB Jihad Ward is visiting the #Vikings, source tells @BleacherReport.
Ward comes off a career-best 5 sacks last season for the #Giants. pic.twitter.com/NKEichjg73
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 19, 2024
Ward has spent the last two seasons with the New York Giants, and in 2023, he posted 5.0 sacks, nine quarterback hits, and five tackles for loss.
A second-round draft choice in 2016, he played his first two seasons with the then-Oakland Raiders, and he made two playoff appearances as a member of the Baltimore Ravens.
Last season, Minnesota seemed to have a shot at making the playoffs, but Cousins went down with a torn Achilles at midseason, and they ended up losing six of their final seven games.
While defense may be a bit of a question mark for them, they have a nice collection of skill players on offense, including wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, as well as tight end T.J. Hockenson.
Right now, Sam Darnold is slated to be their starting quarterback, but there are rumors they want to trade up in the draft to nab someone such as J.J. McCarthy.
The Vikings currently have the No. 11 pick, and there is a chance McCarthy could be available there, although trading up into the top-six or so would greatly ensure they could take the University of Michigan signal-caller.
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