Minnesota’s biggest offseason acquisition, defensive tackle Michael Pierce, is sitting out the upcoming 2020 NFL season as a precaution amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The news of Pierce’s decision was first reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo.
#Vikings NT Michael Pierce is opting out of the 2020 season, sources tell me and @MikeGarafolo. Minnesota’s only big-ticket free agent this year leaves a hole up front on defense.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 28, 2020
Pierce, who starred as a run-stuffing nose tackle with the Baltimore Ravens, signed a three-year deal worth $27 million, including $18 million guaranteed, this offseason.
Vikings veterans were scheduled to report to team headquarters in Eagan for the start of training camp on Tuesday, though football-related activities won’t happen for a handful of days as players are required to pass three COVID-19 tests before being allowed into TCO Performance Center.
This is a developing story.
