Minnesota may be a landing spot for newly-released defensive end Michael Johnson.
Johnson was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Wednesday afternoon following just one season with the Bucs.
Minnesota had been interested in Johnson when he was a free agent last season. He began his career in Cincinnati and played for Vikings coach Mike Zimmer, who was then the Bengals defensive coordinator.
Recently-released Bucs DE Michael Johnson's first visit will be with the Minnesota Vikings, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2015
Instead of coming to the Vikings, Johnson signed a five-year $43.5 million deal with the Buccaneers.
Michael Johnson's deal with the Bucs included no offsets – smart structure on his part. He gets to double dip in 2015 once released
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 11, 2015
Johnson battled injuries for much of his lone season in Tampa Bay, he is one of three players the Buccaneers signed last year that the team has now released after just one season.
According to NFL.com, Cincinnati is thought to be interested in getting Johnson to return, but his relationship with Zimmer could lead him to Minnesota if the Vikings are interested.
“He’s a Mike Zimmer guy,” a source told the Pioneer Press’ Chris Tomasson. “He almost went (to Minnesota) last year.”
https://twitter.com/GoesslingESPN/status/575765226668171265
In six NFL seasons, Johnson has 30.5 sacks, including a career-high of 11.5 in 2012.
