Vikings Release Riley Reiff

The Vikings have announced that they have released LT Riley Reiff.

Over the past few days it had been reported that the Vikings were attempting to renegotiate Reiff’s contract, which would’ve been a $17.45 million cap hit this season for the Vikings. But apparently those negotiations fell through, and Reiff is now a free agent. The Vikings will save $11 million in cap space with Reiff’s release.

Reiff had one of his best seasons last year, allowing only one sack all season and committing only one penalty. His overall PFF grade was 71.4, which was pretty typical for him over the past several years. Reiff was with the Vikings for the past four seasons, after playing his first five seasons with the Lions.

News of Reiff’s release brings speculation of who will replace him, and if the Vikings will shuffle some players around, or what. Lots of possibilities and combinations are possible. Some say Ezra Cleveland may be moved to left tackle, or the Vikings could draft a left tackle, or possibly acquire one in free agency. Brian O’Neill could also move to left tackle, and a guy like Oli Udoh or Rashod Hill take over at right tackle. The Vikings could also be in the market to acquire a guard in free agency. Difficult to say right now what the most likely scenario is, but one thing is certain: Riley Reiff will no longer be the Vikings starting left tackle.

Stay tuned.