NFL news: 5 bold predictions for Minnesota Vikings in 2020

5 bold predictions for Minnesota Vikings in 2020

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 22: Adam Thielen #19 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 22, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – OCTOBER 13: Danielle Hunter #99 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates a sack against the Philadelphia Eagles during the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 13, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings defeated the Eagles 38-20. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

2. Danielle Hunter won’t get double-digit sacks

Hunter was a dominant presence for the Vikings in 2019. He tallied 14.5 sacks on his way to Pro Bowl honors. The problem he’ll face in 2020 is that he’s lost a great deal of his edge rushing support.

Everson Griffen wasn’t the most dynamic defensive end in football, but the wily veteran still contributed eight sacks to his team’s cause last year. His departure will allow offense’s to double team Hunter anytime they’re faced with an obvious passing down.

That won’t make Hunter a non-factor, but it is going to drastically reduce his production. Instead of pushing on to 15 or more sacks, he’s going to fail to hit double-digits. He’ll still be playing just as well as he did last year, but the double teams are going to keep him quiet for long stretches.

Look for this prediction to hold true even if the Vikings spend a first round pick on an edge rusher. It will still take a rookie time to get up to speed in Zimmer’s defense. Hunter’s production is going to take a serious dip in 2020.

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