Vikings Secure Deal with Dalton Risner

Vikings Secure Deal with Dalton Risner, Bolster O-Line

The Minnesota Vikings have finally addressed a long-standing need on their offensive line by reaching an agreement with guard Dalton Risner. According to a source, this deal suggests that Risner is likely to become a starter for the team. Risner, who spent the previous four seasons with the Denver Broncos, is expected to sign a contract worth approximately $4 million for the remainder of the current season. This amount is higher than the salaries of the Vikings' current starting guards.

The Vikings have encountered difficulties this season in creating running lanes for their rushing attack, which ranks as the NFL's least productive, with just 69 yards gained over two games. Their running backs are averaging a mere 0.77 yards before contact, the lowest figure in the league, indicating that the offensive line has not been providing much room for running.

The Vikings had been interested in Risner for some time, with him visiting the team during training camp on August 1st. At that time, Coach Kevin O'Connell noted that Risner wasn't completely healthy but expressed the team's desire to get to know him better during the visit. The goal was to strengthen an already solid offensive line group.

The interior of the Vikings' offensive line was a concern last season, and those issues have persisted into the 2023 season. Center Garrett Bradbury has played only seven snaps due to a lower back injury, and guards Ezra Cleveland and Ed Ingram have faced challenges at times.

Vikings Secure Deal with Dalton Risner

Risner, during his time with the Broncos, started in nearly every game, missing just four over the past two seasons due to various injuries, including back, shoulder, and elbow injuries that he played through or led to his placement on injured reserve.

Back to blog