Vikings Just Added a Familiar Face for Brian Flores: Report
· Yahoo Sports
The Minnesota Vikings are getting a new linebacker. Kyle Van Noy signed with the Vikings on Wednesday evening. The Ringer’s Tom Pelissero reported this
The linebacker was linked to the Vikings earlier in the day. KSTP’s Darren Wolfson reported that the linebacker came in for a visit. There were indications that he may sign with the team. Now, it is a reality.
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Van Noy reunites with coach Brian Flores. Flores has worked with the linebacker in various capacities, from linebackers coach with the New England Patriots to head coach with the Miami Dolphins. Van Noy was able to play some of his best years under Flores, and now he has a chance to revitalize his career.
Pelissero expanded on this news Tuesday night.
Veteran OLB Kyle Van Noy is signing with the Vikings, sources tell
@ringer @netflixsportsVan Noy and DC Brian Flores won two Super Bowls together with the Patriots. Now they’re teaming up in Minnesota, where Van Noy will start on the practice squad to ramp up.
Van Noy will provide a little bit of everything to the Vikings. For one, the team needs depth at the pass-rushing spot. Tyler Batty’s injury really accelerated that need, and Van Noy will be able to provide it. In addition, his history with Flores will automatically make him a good fit into the Vikings’ defensive scheme.
When Van Noy is at his best, he is a prolific pass-rusher. He had 12.5 sacks and 21 quarterback hits just two years ago, and he will be able to bring a disruptive force to a Vikings defense that already can rush the passer at a high rate. They were tied for fourth in the league last season with 49 sacks. Only the Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, and Denver Broncos had more on the year.
Due to his familiarity with Flores and this defensive scheme, he should be able to slide in seamlessly. The season-opener against the Green Bay Packers is just a couple of days away. There is not a ton of time to acclimate and learn a new defense. The veteran will not have to do that. He can come in and make an impact at the position
Vikings Will Be Able To Get Veteran Production
In addition to just learning the playbook, the Vikings will not be able to get consistent production from a veteran who has seen it all in the NFL. This will be valuable for a defense that is formidable but still trying to find its identity at certain positions. In addition to helping out the defense, the Vikings could have the ability to substitute out of different packages and stuff like that without a major production drop-off. This could help the defensive unit in terms of rest, or if a player struggles.
Overall, this is a low-risk, high-reward move for the Vikings. Flores is very particular about the types of players he wants in his scheme. Van Noy was not only one of those players for several seasons, but he also excelled in that type of role. His veteran pedigree and ability to play at a high level will be welcome on this defense. He may end up being one of the bigger offseason additions, and it’s unique that he will be coming to town before the season-opener against a vaunted rival.
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