Minnesota Vikings players who deserve more snaps in Week 2

1. Michael Pierce

Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Michael Pierce had an outstanding performance against Cincinnati. He recorded two of the team’s five sacks on Joe Burrow, one of which was a crucial play in overtime that gave the Vikings a glimmer of hope in what would ultimately be an unhappy ending.

More impressive, Pierce accomplished both sacks and two pressures despite playing only 41 of 69 defensive snaps. He also had 7 combined tackles during that time. He was more than ready to make plays after opting out of last season due to COVID-19.

Minnesota needs to give Pierce a heavier workload if they want to minimize the time that the ball is in Kyler Murray’s hands. Murray had five touchdowns last week, and the Vikings need to bring all the defensive heat they have to slow him down. Pierce will be a key part of that.