Sunday was a day to impress for the Minnesota Vikings as they went out to dinner to a pair of free agents they’re trying to add to an already solid roster.
Offensive tackle Andre Smith and safety Michael Griffin were dining together with Vikings’ brass at Manny’s Steakhouse in Minneapolis, WCCO’s Mark Rosen and others report.
Yes Vikings courting and feeding 6-4, 335 pound OT, Andre Smith and new safety, Michael Griffin at Manny's. We hear from Spielman at 1000.
— Mark Rosen (@KFANRosen) March 14, 2016
Andre Smith has arrived w/Hank Fraley & Tony Sparano at Manny's for visit w/ #Vikings. Michael Griffin arrived w/Jerry Gray & George Edwards
— David McCoy (@mccoympls) March 13, 2016
“I think I could come in and help the offensive line greatly,” Smith told the Pioneer Press. “I’m a dominant lineman both in the run and can keep Teddy (Bridgewater) clean.”
Bridgewater was pressured more than any other quarterback in the NFL last season, according to Pro Football Focus.
Best players left in FA – OT's Russell Okung (Sea) Andre Smith(Cn), DS's Eric Weddle(SD) & Reggie Nelson(Cn) @nflnetwork
— Charley Casserly (@CharleyCasserly) March 13, 2016
Griffin is a veteran safety who would likely step in and be the favorite competing for the starting job next to Pro Bowl safety Harrison Smith. Chris Tomasson reports that Griffin will sign his contract with the Vikings on Monday. He agreed to a deal worth $2.5 million last week, per Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post.
Free agent safety Michael Griffin also has arrived in Minnesota. He will check out the facilities tomorrow and sign his #Vikings contract.
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) March 13, 2016
Michael Griffin Vikings deal: $2.5M, $250K signing bonus, $1.65M salary, $31,250 per game active roster bonus, up to $500K PT incentive
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 10, 2016
