After the previous season, guard Dalton Risner expressed his desire to return to Minnesota for an additional year. Throughout the offseason, he had shared messages on social media with the same outcome. He achieved his goal on Wednesday.
According to a person with knowledge of the negotiations, Risner agreed to a one-year contract with the Vikings, rejoining the organization for a second season after starting eleven games the previous one.
The Vikings and Risner had discussed a potential comeback to football throughout the offseason, but they were unable to come to an agreement on a deal. That being said, the Vikings worked out a deal with Risner a week prior to the team’s required minicamp.
Blake Brandel was re-signed by the team this offseason to a three-year contract, and offensive coordinator Wes Phillips had stated that Brandel deserved the chance to start this year.
Center Garrett Bradbury stated that Brandel “is still the starter” at left guard and that Risner is entering as a backup. Brandel was not present for Wednesday’s organized team workouts due to personal issues.
The Vikings would have the same five offensive linemen as last season if Ed Ingram stays at right guard and Risner takes over at left guard.
Though he visited the Vikings during training camp last year, Risner, who turns 29 in July, didn’t sign a contract with the organization until September.
When Ezra Cleveland hurt his foot in October, he took over as the team’s starting left guard. He kept the position when Cleveland was traded to Jacksonville around the trade deadline.
