Eric Wilson Needs to be Back in Purple

(Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images)

The list of former Green Bay Packers’ captains to sign with the Vikings features some big names. Brett Favre, Greg Jennings, and Aaron Jones are some of the names played for Minnesota after being tossed aside by the cheeseheads. In addition to Jones, the 2025 Vikings featured a player who had worn the “C” for Green Bay, Eric Wilson. Wilson was drafted by the Vikings in 2017, playing for the purple for 4 seasons during his first stint. He played in all 68 games during that time span, starting 27 games, two of which were playoff matchups. After splitting with the Vikings, Wilson played a quiet 2021 season for the Eagles and Texans. Wilson signed with the Packers the following offseason. Wilson became a special teams leader for the Packers, earning respect as a captain of the unit. He recorded 120 combined tackles, 1 forced fumble, 2 pass deflections, and 1 interceptions over his three years there.

In the 2025 offseason, the Vikings inked Wilson to a one year, $2.6 million dollar deal. This move flew under the radar for many fans around the league and even more casual fans in Minnesota. With the team seemingly set up well at the linebacker position with Ivan Pace Jr and Blake Cashman, few expected Wilson to have any notable defensive impact for the team. Wilson made his return to the Vikings on the road week one in Chicago. With the Vikings up 20-17 midway through the 4th quarter, Wilson broke through and partially blocked a Bears punt that set the Vikings up with phenomenal field position. This led to a Vikings touchdown in what would end up a Minnesota Win.

Due to a Blake Cashman injury, Wilson was thrust into a starting role in week two against Atlanta. Wilson made another big play in that one, punching the ball out of Drake London's hands for a fumble. Despite Minnesota losing the game, Wilson was playing lights out. Wilson forced another fumble week 3 against the Bengals and by the time Cashman was ready to return, Wilson had recorded 35 combined tackles. The Vikings decided that Wilson had played so well that they would bench the struggling Ivan Pace Jr. The new Vikings linebacking duo consisted of Cashman and Wilson. Wilson’s blitzing ability was unlocked when Cashman returned as he nabbed 1.5 sacks against the Eagles. Wilson continued his star play throughout the entire season. Starting the final 16 games of games of the year, Wilson totaled 6.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and 115 total tackles.

The Vikings should absolutely have interest in bringing Wilson back to be a starter again in 2026. His price tag will be higher, but likely well within reason for how well he can play. The return of Brian Flores and firing of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah will impact Minnesota’s pursuit of defensive talent and it’s almost certain the Vikings defensive coordinator will want 55 to stay in purple. Wilson played a massive role this season and deserves to do it again in 2026.

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