The Minnesota Vikings are currently sitting at 12-2 and tied with the Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions atop the NFC standings. That makes Minnesota’s final three games the most pivotal of the season. If the Vikings win, they’ll not only take home the NFC North crown but will be the top seed in the NFC, earning them a first-round bye.
Minnesota doesn’t play Philadelphia, but thanks to tie-breakers, they have the advantage over them. The Vikings do play the Lions to end the season, and the winner of that game could determine whether Minnesota walks away with the #1 seed, or falls all the way to the #5. Some help could be on the way for the Vikings in the form of a former Pro Bowler.
The Miami Dolphins’ loss last week against the Houston Texans all but eliminated them from playoff contention in the AFC. There is still a slim chance, but they would need a lot to go right. With that impending elimination comes the idea that Miami could be parting with defensive tackle/end Calais Campbell.
According to Miami Herald reporter Barry Jackson, the Dolphins could opt to release Campbell once they are officially eliminated from contention in an effort to allow him to sign with a contender and chase a Super Bowl trophy that has eluded him throughout his illustrious 17-year career.
The Vikings have the cap space to make such a move, and doing so would strengthen an already great defense. Campbell could come in and immediately join a rotation at defensive tackle, giving the Vikings even more pass-rush prowess.
Over 14 games with the Dolphins this season, Campbell has notched 43 tackles and four sacks, adding nine quarterback hits in his age-38 season. He’s also provided the Dolphins with a forced fumble and has knocked down five passes.
Adding Campbell’s production to the likes of Harrison Phillips and their EDGE rushers Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard could put the Vikings over the top down the stretch.
