Former Cleveland Browns first-round pick, defensive tackle Phil Taylor, worked out for the Vikings on Tuesday, ESPN reports.
Taylor, 27, played four seasons with the Browns after being selected by Cleveland with the 21st overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.
The Pioneer Press says there is “no indication” the Vikings are close to signing Taylor, who tips the scales at a last reported playing weight of 337 pounds.
ESPN speculates that Taylor working out is a sign that defensive tackle Linval Joseph’s foot injury still isn’t healthy. Joseph, who was playing at an All-Pro level prior to injuring a toe Nov. 29 against the Falcons, didn’t participate in practice on Tuesday.
Taylor has played in 44 games in his career (42 starts) and made 69 tackles and 7 sacks, but has struggled with injuries since his rookie season.
More from ESPN:
“The Vikings have been short on defensive tackle depth since Shamar Stephen went on injured reserve, and it’s common for NFL teams to work out players on Tuesdays, but it’s worth monitoring the situation, given what Joseph has meant to the Vikings’ defensive line and the fact they’ve allowed 270 rushing yards in their last two games without Joseph.”
Minnesota also worked out defensive tackle Euclid Cummings of the CFL on Tuesday.
