In a bit of a stunning move, offensive tackle Riley Reiff has restructured his deal with the Vikings and will stay with the team.
On Monday, it seemed like Riley Reiff had played his last down with the Minnesota Vikings. After the team traded for star defensive end Yannick Ngakoue, the expectation was that Reiff would in turn get cut because of complications with the cap space moving forward.
There were reports coming out of Minnesota that even stated Reiff had started saying goodbye to teammates, informing them that he felt it was only a matter of time before he was released. On Tuesday, though, Reiff and Minnesota were able to rework his contract, according to Field Yates. Yup, the massive offensive tackle will suit up for the Vikes in 2020 after all.
The Vikings and starting LT Riley Reiff are closing in on a restructured contract to stay with the team, per league source.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 1, 2020
Minnesota keeps its stalwart offensive tackle.
Riley Reiff agreed to take a pay-cut in order to suit up for the Vikings this campaign
On Tuesday morning, NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported Reiff’s agent was searching around for potential trade destinations in case. There was also word the Vikings had asked Reiff to take a pay cut instead of them releasing him.
In the end, Reiff decided to take that pay cut so he can try and help the Vikings get back to the postseason in 2020. His familiarity with the coaching staff also played a major role in his decision, according to Adam Schefter.
In the end, Vikings’ LT Riley Reiff wanted to remain with OC Gary Kubiak, OL coach Rick Dennison and assistant Oline coach Phil Rauscher. https://t.co/GBKpd4JPCz
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 1, 2020
Fortunately for the Vikings, and Kirk Cousins, the veteran left tackle won’t be going anywhere this fall. Reiff is getting ready to enter his ninth season in the NFL and his fourth with the Vikings. He’s started 43 games for the organization, all at his left tackle position.
While it seemed like he was on his way out, Vikings supporters everywhere can breathe a sigh of relief knowing the 6-foot-6, 305-pound lineman will be ready to protect Cousins’ blindside.