The Vikings Sign A Couple More Players

The Minnesota Vikings spent the second day of free agency introducing five new players to the media. Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, Blake Cashman, Aaron Jones, and Sam Darnold had their time at the table, under the lights, and taking questions. The Vikings also spent the second day of free agency adding to the roster. Two more players were signed. 

Jerry Tillery, DT

Trent Sherfield, WR

While most, if not all, of the five players introduced yesterday are penciled in as starters, Jerry Tillery and Trent Sherfield are more of the “under-the-radar” additions. Both have the potential to be more than that. The Los Angeles Chargers selected Tillery with the 28th pick of the 2019 NFL Draft. The Chargers thought that they had a difference-maker. That’s the expectation of all first-round picks. Tillery earned a starting spot in his second and third seasons but was released half-way through his fourth season. The Las Vegas Raiders scooped him up and made him a part of their defensive line rotation. Last season was his lone full season with the Raiders and he started six games. While a first-round pick not sticking with the drafting team often, rightfully, triggers the “bust” label, Tillery still has his freakish 6’6” and 300lb size. He still has the talent that made him a first round selection. Deeper analytics have him as an ascending pass rusher. Perhaps defensive coordinator Brian Flores and defensive line coaches Marcus Dixon and Patrick Hill can unlock in Tillery what’s been missing his first five seasons in the league. The signing of Sherfield probably thrills special teams coordinator Matt Daniels. Sherfield is a gritty football player. He’s been excellent on special teams throughout his six years in the league. As a receiver, he’s unfortunately been pegged as a terrific blocker. His 2022 season with the Miami Dolphins shows that he can contribute as a pass catcher. I like both signings but I’m typically optimistic about all Vikings signings. 

Here’s a look at the Vikings defensive line and receiver depth at the signings of Jerry Tillery and Trent Sherfield. 

Defensive Line

Harrison Phillips

Jaquelin Roy

Jonathan Bullard

Jerry Tillery

At the moment, this is the thinnest group on the Vikings roster. 

Receiver

Justin Jefferson

Jordan Addison

Jalen Nailor

Brandon Powell

Trent Sherfield

N’Keal Harry

Trishton Jackson

Lucky Jackson

Malik Knowles

Thayer Thomas

Daylen Baldwin

At 11 receivers, there really isn’t room to add more. The top of the depth chart is top notch. Jalen Nailor was an offseason standout last year until an injury early in training set him back. As soon as he returned during the season his season ended with a concussion. If he can stay on the field, Nailor could emerge as a strong #3. Brandon Powell made plays when given opportunity. He will compete with Nailor for #3. Trent Sherfield is an instant special teams contributor. If he’s the #5 receiver, that’s a pretty good receiver group. 

We’re on to Day 3 of NFL Free Agency.