Let’s go on a trip, okay? Don’t worry, you don’t need to pick up your COVID mask (or for those of you who don’t believe in that kind of thing, your ‘Earth is 5,000 years old’ trucker hat) for this one, because you’re just following my reasoning about this (in fact, for those of you who don’t believe in masks, maybe you should leave this one).
First of all, as many of you who recognize my name / content know, I am not a big fan of the current and (if I am sure) the future former Minnesota Vikings coach, Mike Zimmer. Don’t get me wrong, he’s fine … But that’s it.
For those who don’t remember, you can take my word or check with William Hill Sportsbook IL and see that the Vikings have been a mediocre playoff team for all other seasons, despite Zimmer having received everything a coach could possibly want.
Based on the title here, I’m sure you’re thinking that I’m somehow blaming Zimmer on or for 2020 and the impact that COVID had. It is not me. Instead, I’m looking at the impact that COVID will have on the 2021 salary cap and what it will mean for Vikings and the rest of the league.
Namely, that the Vikings’ prediction for the 2021 recovery (which many thought would happen due to Zimmer’s defense getting healthier) will not happen, as the team will have to cut the bait with a good chunk of veterans. Not only that, but because of the COVID limit situation, teams that have space for salary limits will be able to essentially create the NFL version of a super team.
Imagine what the Colts could do? Or more appropriately (for this article) a team like Rams just added Matthew Stafford? Or veterans looking to join the Bucs for a chance at a ring with Brady and company?
Not only will Vikings not be as improved (or have improved at all) in defense because of their financial situation, they will also have a ton of teams to fight in the NFC for a playoff spot.
Despite its recent extension, it became clear after George Edwards ‘right-hand man was sacked that the Vikings’ property expected rapid improvement from Zimmer and company. He saved time with the huge 15 choices he helped oversee in 2020, and more with the COVID / injury issues the team faced last season.
Although I am still pointing out COVID as the culprit here, I doubt that it matters much to a group of owners who gave Zimmer a lot of money, support and patience for the “success” of being embarrassed in the playoffs every two seasons.
It will be difficult to get out of this wage ceiling mire, even with Cousins potentially restructuring, as Danielle Hunter needs a big pay rise, and I would be surprised if Zimmer approves Anthony Barr’s team.
I may be wrong and I would love to be, but I just don’t see how to get around it, especially as the team has stuck with the offensive coordinator (meaning we can’t wait for some young genius to show up and convince Zimmer to stop being so risk averse) .
