We learned earlier today that former Eagles linebacker Mychal Kendricks met with the Vikings, and it sounds like he’s got several more visits on his docket. Chris Tomasson of St. Paul Pioneer Press reports (via Twitter) that the free agent will also visit with the Raiders and Browns. The 27-year-old expects to make a decision before the end of the week.
It didn’t take long for Kendricks, who was released by the Eagles last week, to start garnering some suitors. While the former second-rounder’s production has dropped the past two seasons, he’d still be a solid veteran presence for any team. After requesting a trade prior to the 2017 season, Kendricks went on to compile 51 tackles and two sacks in 15 games (13 starts) for Philly. He also earned a start during his team’s Super Bowl victory, finishing the game with four tackles.
While their depth charts are in good shape, the Browns and Raiders could use an additional body at linebacker. Jamie Collins, Joe Schobert, and Christian Kirksey are slotted in as Cleveland’s starting grouping. The latter two were solid in 2017, and Collins is the most accomplished of the three, but Kendricks could compete for a starting gig. Meanwhile, the Raiders have three free agent additions – Tahir Whitehead, Derrick Johnson, and Emmanuel Lamur – penciled in as their starters, so another free agent addition (Kendricks) would provide additional competition at the position.
Tomasson also passes along (via Twitter) that the Vikings haven’t made a definitive offer to Kendricks. When asked about Minnesota’s salary cap constraints, the linebacker acknowledged that he hasn’t “even thought that far.”
Giants!
I’d love for the Pats to kick the tires on this guy. The need help at LB badly.