Offensive lineman Joe Berger may hang up his cleats. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports (via Twitter) that the veteran is considering retirement. The reporter notes that the lineman already has offers on the table from both the Vikings and Lions. We heard earlier this week that at least three teams were eyeing Berger.
The 35-year-old has spent the past seven seasons with the Vikings, where he’s started of each his 46 games over the past three seasons. Capable of playing guard or center, Berger ranks as PFR’s No. 8 interior lineman heading into free agency. Berger had previously indicated that he’d likely retire following the 2017 season, but he’s since walked that back.
The lineman started all 16 games for the Vikings last season, and Pro Football Focus ranked him 23rd among 77 guard candidates following the campaign. Mike Remmers and Danny Isidora are currently slotted in as the Vikings starting guards, while Joe Dahl and T.J. Lang hold that distinction for the Lions.
He should come back another year unless there’s significant health concerns. Minnesota will be a good team next year.