The Vikings roster welcomes a fresh addition in the form of a new linebacker.
A Brian Flores protégé from the Miami Dolphins is reportedly set to join the Minnesota Vikings roster in 2024.
The Vikings, seeking additional depth at off-ball linebacker, recently enlisted journeyman defender Kamu Grugier-Hill for the role. With his seventh team in nine seasons, Grugier-Hill, a seasoned 29-year-old, is expected to assume a reserve position on the depth chart. Notably, he last played for the Carolina Panthers and wasn’t a priority re-signing for the team this season.
Grugier-Hill’s NFL journey includes stints with the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans, Arizona Cardinals, and most recently, the Carolina Panthers. Despite being drafted by the Patriots in the 6th Round in 2016, he gained valuable experience with the Eagles, where he began his NFL career. With 115 games and 42 starts to his name, Grugier-Hill’s versatility and experience are evident. Last season, he started five games for Carolina, tallying 56 tackles and an interception, notably against the Vikings. Throughout his career, Grugier-Hill has amassed 338 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, 11 QB hits, 8 passes defended, 4 forced fumbles, and 3 interceptions.
Grugier-Hill’s Pro Football Focus ratings indicate fluctuating performance over the years, with his specialty lying in pressuring quarterbacks, which complements newcomer linebacker Blake Cashman’s strengths in pass coverage.
Joining the Vikings’ inside linebacker room alongside Ivan Pace Jr., Blake Cashman, and Brian Asamoah, Grugier-Hill’s addition bolsters the team’s defensive depth.
The move comes amid Flores’ tenure as head coach, with the Vikings aiming to build upon their defensive improvement under his leadership. Despite hopes for bolstering the defensive line, the Vikings have opted for budget-friendly additions like Jerry Tillery and Jonah Williams. Outside linebacker Jihad Ward was also signed by the team recently.
