NFL Rumors: 3 Eric Kendricks landing spots in 2023 after Vikings cut LB
As Eric Kendricks may or may not be aware, rumors have whispered about the Minnesota Vikings preparing for the post-Kirk Cousins era this offseason. However, on the defensive side of the ball, the team has jumped into the post-veteran era in one position. The team cut ties with linebacker Eric Kendricks on Monday in a move many have claimed was to save money.
Regardless, Kendricks is now available to be swooped. At 31 years old, the team getting the defensive player may not be getting a young buck, but they could get one or two usable years out of him. Depending on where Kendricks goes, there could be some other bonuses to signing him as well. Here are three destinations that could be a great fit for the defensive star.
Where will Eric Kendricks be in 2023?
Where should Eric Kendriks go in 2023?
#1 - Green Bay Packers
If you can't beat them, join them. For most of the last 30 years, this phrase best applied to the Vikings chasing the Packers. However, after a 2022 season that didn't go Green Bay's way, the team could have a use for a long-time Vikings veteran like Kendricks.
"I believe that the longer Aaron Rodgers waits the more likely it is that he's back with the Packers" ~ @RapSheet
#PMSLive https://t.co/6qNYmCDv9m
Aside from the experience he brings to the table, Kendricks also offers unique insights about the division that could help Green Bay in divisional matchups. Not only could he help inform the team about the goings-on behind the scenes in Minnesota, but he also boasts plenty of experience playing against other teams in the division.
The #Vikings are releasing veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks, per sources.
A first-team All-Pro in 2019 and one of the NFL’s most consistently productive LBs, Kendricks now heads to free agency. https://t.co/1090Ws7MlH
After nearly a decade in the NFC North, Kendricks would have as much experience as anyone in six games per season.
#2 - Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions would have a similar use for the linebacker compared to the Packers. However, unlike the Packers, who ranked in the middle of the pack last year in total defense, the Lions trailed most of the league. Any boost to the defense that also offers intel and a sea of experience playing other teams in the division is a no-brainer.
At this point in his career, shortly after getting a taste of the playoffs, the defensive star could be hoping to win a Super Bowl in 2023. If he wants that, the Lions would rank second behind the Packers (assuming Aaron Rodgers returns). While one could argue that both teams had very similar seasons, the Lions would be starting from square one in terms of playoff experience.
The Packers, meanwhile, are only a year removed from their last playoff run. Put simply, the team is loaded with playoff experience and is better prepared to capitalize in January than the Lions.
#3 - Houston Texans
Failing those two NFC North options, he could simply pursue warm weather and money. The Texans have about as cheap of a roster as any team in the league, especially at quarterback. Considering how poorly their team ranked in defense in 2022 (30th), the Texans might be willing to overpay for a veteran who can help coach up the young or playoff-starved players on the roster.
A jump to the AFC might also serve as a refreshing change of opponents for the linebacker and could jolt him into new situations. The extra stimuli could boost his play back to where it peaked around the turn of the 2020s. Of course, the personal wants and needs of the general managers in the NFL will have the ultimate say in where the linebacker lands.
On the other hand, he could simply hang it up like so many stars before him and call it a career. Until he gets signed and gets through training camp, that is one outcome that cannot be completely ignored. However, with money to be made, many fans see this as an unlikely outcome.