As the NFL offseason continues to unfold, former Minnesota Vikings guard Dalton Risner remains a free agent but is optimistic about signing with a new team soon. During a recent TikTok livestream, Risner shared insights into his ongoing free agency, revealing that he is in discussions with multiple teams, including the Vikings, Denver Broncos, and Cincinnati Bengals.
Risner, who is 29 years old and stands at 6-foot-5, 312 pounds, started his career with the Broncos after being selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Over the course of his six-year career, he has made a name for himself as a reliable offensive lineman, starting 81 games and showcasing his skills primarily at guard.
After spending the first four years of his career in Denver, Risner signed with the Vikings in September 2023, where he played for the last two seasons. In 2024, he appeared in 10 games, making eight starts at right guard. However, his future with the Vikings has become uncertain following the team's recent signing of guard Will Fries, who is expected to take over the right guard position that Risner occupied.
"Minnesota has shown interest in bringing me back, but only to an extent," Risner stated during his livestream. He acknowledged that while the Vikings have expressed some desire to retain him, the addition of Fries complicates his potential role in the team. Risner's willingness to return to Minnesota hinges on how the team plans to utilize him going forward.
"I will be on a team soon, I could imagine," Risner added, expressing confidence in finding a new home. He also mentioned the Bengals and a possible reunion with the Broncos as other teams that have reached out to him. The Bengals, in particular, are known for needing offensive line help, making them a viable option for Risner.
In his time with the Vikings, Risner has performed admirably, particularly in pass protection, though his run-blocking has been described as mediocre. Pro Football Focus has rated his performance over the years, with a notable dip in 2023 when he earned a score of 57.1, ranking 46th among 79 eligible guards. However, he bounced back in 2024 with a score of 68.1, placing him 22nd among 77 guards. This improvement could make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their offensive line depth.
Risner's journey with the Vikings has been marked by adaptability; he found a way into the starting lineup during both the 2023 and 2024 seasons, stepping in when injuries sidelined other players. In 2023, after guard Ezra Cleveland was injured, Risner seized the opportunity to secure a starting spot, which later became permanent when Cleveland was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Last season, he filled in again when Ed Ingram was benched, who was subsequently traded to the Houston Texans.
Despite his successes, the uncertainty surrounding Risner’s future in Minnesota raises questions about his next steps. He has indicated that he would be open to returning if the Vikings are willing to work with him, but he also recognizes that he may not be in line for a starting position. "I love Minnesota so much," Risner expressed, hinting at his desire to remain a part of the team if the opportunity arises.
As the draft approaches, the Vikings may also consider other options at guard should Risner not return. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah could target early-round prospects like Grey Zabel from North Dakota State, Tyler Booker from Alabama, or Donovan Jackson from Ohio State. Additionally, several veteran guards, including Will Hernandez, Brandon Scherff, and Shaq Mason, remain unsigned as of mid-April, providing Minnesota with further alternatives.
On the other hand, the Broncos, who have prioritized strengthening their offensive line, could see Risner's return as a feel-good story. General manager George Paton has already secured depth at guard by re-signing Quinn Meinerz and signing Ben Powers to substantial contracts. However, adding Risner could enhance their depth even further, allowing the team to focus on other areas during the upcoming draft.
Risner's candid updates on social media have kept fans engaged, as he often shares insights into his free agency journey. Yet, some speculate that personality clashes may have contributed to his prolonged unemployment in the NFL. Lou Scataglia, who covers the Broncos, suggested that Risner might have rubbed teammates and coaches the wrong way during his time in Denver, which could be a factor in his current situation.
Despite these challenges, Risner remains determined to find a new team that values his skills as a starting-caliber offensive lineman. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Risner as he navigates the free-agent landscape, with fans eagerly awaiting news of his next move.
In conclusion, Dalton Risner's future in the NFL is still very much in the air, but his proactive approach and willingness to explore various options could lead to a new contract soon. Whether he returns to the Vikings, finds a home with the Broncos, or joins the Bengals, Risner's experience and talent make him a desirable asset for any team looking to strengthen their offensive line.
