The Minnesota Vikings sit at 6-1, but they still need help on their defensive line before the trade deadline. KSTP's Darren Wolfson floated the name of Miami Dolphins veteran Zach Sieler as a potential target. Sieler has spent nine seasons in the league, playing for the Dolphins and the Baltimore Ravens. His career numbers show he is a steady force in the middle of the defense with 37.5 sacks and 212 solo tackles.
This potential move makes sense because Sieler has a history with Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. The two worked together when Flores was in Miami. Wolfson noted that Flores is a big fan of Sieler's play style. The NFL trade deadline is set for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. ET. That gives teams just one week to make a deal before the window closes.
A Connection Built on Trust
Flores knows exactly what he is getting if he brings Sieler to Minnesota. The coordinator has seen the player perform up close for years. In a Nov. 4 video from SKOR North, Wolfson said, "I put the over-under at 1.5, so I'm fully expecting at least one transaction." He added that he spoke with high-profile agents who mentioned the interior defensive line as a key area of need. Sieler fits that bill perfectly for a team that wants to shore up its run defense.
The Dolphins are sitting at 1-6 and are clearly not a playoff team this year. First-year general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan faces a choice to trade veterans for future draft picks. Sieler is a team captain with a longer deal, which makes him more valuable to a contender. With over $100 million in cap space for 2027, the Dolphins do not need cash at this moment. However, they need to stockpile picks for the 2027 and 2028 drafts.
The Cost of a Star Player
While Sieler is a solid name, the Vikings also have eyes on other areas. Wolfson addressed the running back market, specifically regarding Indianapolis Colts star Jonathan Taylor. He stated that the Vikings are unlikely to give up a Day 2 draft pick for Taylor. The cost is simply too high for a team that already has a strong record. "I can't give you a specific tight end name," Wolfson added when asked about other positions. This shows the front office is being careful with its assets.
Money is a big factor in any major trade. The Athletic's Alec Lewis noted that Taylor is under contract through 2028 with a two-year extension worth $44 million. The Vikings have other players who need contract extensions this offseason. They must decide if trading for a star running back makes financial sense. Sieler offers a different path. He is a proven veteran who can help immediately without the massive price tag of a top-tier running back.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler suggested that the Dolphins should consider trading pass rusher Josh Uche as well. Uche has played in all seven games this season with two sacks and a forced fumble. Moving him could bring in a mid-round pick. But Sieler remains the bigger name on the block. The Dolphins have traded only one veteran at the deadline in the last decade, running back Kenyan Drake in 2019. This year could be different.
The Lions play the Dolphins on Sunday, Nov. 8, at Hard Rock Stadium.
