Dalton Risner is set to return to the Vikings for a second consecutive year after two stints in free agency since his rookie contract ended.

According to ESPN.com’s Adam Schefter, the veteran lineman has reached a one-year agreement to rejoin the Vikings. Risner made 11 starts last season and is expected to be a key part of the team once again.

Risner’s NFL journey has taken some unexpected twists in the past two years. Despite being a starter for the Broncos, he struggled to find a lucrative deal in free agency, leading to him being unsigned at the start of last season. However, he found a home in Minnesota and will return for another season at a reasonable cost.

While some guards secured big contracts in free agency this year, Risner did not make the top 50 list after his experience last year. Despite this, he has proven to be a dependable starter for the Vikings and will continue to contribute to the team’s offensive line.

Risner’s performance last season was rated mid-pack by Pro Football Focus but excelled in ESPN’s pass block win rate metric. With his return to the Vikings confirmed, he will likely play a significant role in the upcoming season.

Having started 73 games in his career, Risner’s experience will be crucial for the Vikings. He will be competing for a starting spot and could impact the roster makeup, especially with the presence of other linemen like Blake Brandel.

Starting as a backup, Risner worked his way into a full-time role after a trade and injuries reshuffled the offensive line. With young talent and veterans on the roster, Risner’s experience will be invaluable in the upcoming season.

Despite his desire for a lucrative deal, Risner’s focus will be on contributing to the Vikings’ success in the upcoming season.