Alex Boone to Sign with Minnesota Vikings

After allowing 45 sacks last season, the Minnesota Vikings knew they had to better protect quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. They took a major step in doing that today by signing one of the top offensive lineman on the market.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Minnesota Viking will sign offensive guard Alex Boone away from the San Francisco 49ers.

Not only will Alex Boone help protect Teddy Bridgewater, he should help create some big running lanes for Adrian Peterson.

Here is what NFL Mock writer Jeff Olsen had to say about Alex Boone heading into free agency this offseason.

"Boone is one of many quality guards hitting the free agent market this year and as a pro bowl caliber player two of the last three years (2013 and 2015) He should get a lot of interest on the open market.  Boone is an extremely long athlete, measuring in at 6’8.  You can see the use of this length in all aspects of his game, but particularly in the run game where he is at his best.  He was part of a 49ers offensive line that tied for 16th in the league in rushing yards per attempt.  He is still just 28 years old and has only missed four games in the last five years, so he is still in the heart of his prime and should be one of the most highly sought after players in free agency."

The Vikings had been running with Michael Harris and Brian Fusco at guard but clearly needed an upgrade after allowing as many sacks as they did.

With so much invested into Teddy Bridgewater right now, finding that anchor for your interior offensive line is a great move by the Minnesota Vikings. Now they can focus on their defense and wide receivers in the first round and possibly look at another guard on day two of the NFL Draft.