The Vikings defense took a hit this offseason when Sheldon Richardson signed with the Cleveland Browns.
Even so, expect the unit to be solid heading into 2019.
The folks over at Pro Football Focus ranked the Vikings run defense, led by Linval Joseph, as the ninth-best in the NFL as we approach the 2019 season.
The PFF piece focuses on what we’ll see from edges Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen. The Vikings are hoping they can get a bounce-back season from Griffen after off-the-field troubles hindered his 2018 season.
The Vikings run defense was solid in 2018. They allowed 1,815 rushing yards (15th in the NFL), 4.1 yards per carry (8th in NFL) and 13 touchdowns (15th in NFL).
Minnesota brough back Shamar Stephen to replace Richardson on the defensive line alongside Richardson. While this is a downgrade, that might even out if the Vikings can get solid production again from Griffen.
The Bears and Lions join the Vikings as NFC North teams in the top 10.
