Vikings Release LB Eric Kendricks

The veteran led Minnesota in tackles for seven of his eight seasons with the team.

The Vikings announced Monday that they are releasing veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks. 

“As a Pro Bowler and team captain, a Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee and a leader of the Vikings social justice efforts, Eric leaves a powerful, permanent legacy within our organization and the Minnesota community,” general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said in a statement. “While he is best known as a playmaker and respected linebacker across the league, Eric’s contributions to the Vikings extend far beyond the field because of his selfless and unwavering commitment to improving societal issues. I have the utmost respect for Eric and wish him and Ally, along with their growing family, continued success in their next chapter.”

Kendricks was selected by Minnesota in the second round of the 2015 NFL draft and has been a constant on the team’s defense ever since. His best season came in 2019 when he was named to the Pro Bowl and earned first-team All-Pro recognition. He led the team in tackles in seven of his eight years with the team. 

This past season, he started in all 17 games where he tallied 124 tackles and one sack. Now, the 31-year-old is free to choose his next team.