Minnesota Vikings release linebacker Eric Kendricks

KSTP contributed to this report. WDIO
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Minnesota Vikings logo (NFL)

On Monday the Minnesota Vikings announced they have terminated the contract of linebacker Eric Kendricks. Kendricks was drafted 45th overall by Minnesota in the 2015 NFL Draft. According to his stats, he made 857 tackles, 15 sacks, 51 passes defended with nine interceptions. Kendricks played in 117 career games with the Vikings.

Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah released the following written statement:

“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. 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.”

Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell also expressed his best wishes in the following statement:

“It is extremely difficult to start more than 100 games in this league, but Eric has been a staple in the locker room since he entered the NFL. During my first year as head coach, Eric played a critical role as a captain and a member of the leadership council in helping establish the culture we want in Minnesota. He was a consistent mentor to his younger teammates, and his tireless work ethic set a standard for others to emulate. I’m thankful to have had the chance to coach Eric as a player and get to know him as a person. I know he and Ally will have an immediate positive impact on their next team and community.”

The Minnesota Vikings also made the announcement on the team’s Twitter account, also thanking Kendrick for a job well done.