EAGAN, Minn. — In the first few weeks back with the Vikings since 2020, Eric Wilson resumed his love for the game that has been joined by an expanded leadership role.
After signing with the Vikings as an undrafted free agent back in 2017, Wilson spent his first four NFL seasons with Minnesota. He played for both the Eagles and Texans in 2021 before landing with division-rival Green Bay for the past three seasons.
Now, he's back in Purple.
Vikings Special Teams Coordinator Matt Daniels spoke about Wilson's impact both on defense and special teams.
"The addition of Eric Wilson has been huge for us. This guy has done nothing but come in and really be a second coach in the meeting room and on the practice field," Daniels told Twin Cities media members. "Eric is an eight-year vet. He pours so much into the young guys just from a, 'Hey, I see it this way, you know, I can help you out this way. Think of it like this.' Just his insight into what today's game truly looks like to help those young guys out."
Head Coach Kevin O'Connell also credited Wilson and his influence on the team.
"He hasn't changed one bit. I was not here previously with him, but he made a tremendous impact on so many folks in this organization," O'Connell said. "I know there were a lot of people celebrating getting him back here. That's for football reasons, that's for the locker room, former teammates. So couldn't be happier with 'E-Dub' for sure."
Wilson played in every game during his tenure with the Vikings from 2017-2020, making an impact as a linebacker, as well as on special teams.
The Michigan native reflected on why he wanted to come back to where it all started.
"I always loved it, every year. When I was first here, I loved it; it was a great place to start off," Wilson said. "Good guys, class-A organization and nothing but love for everyone here, so I'm happy to be back."
The 30-year-old has played in a few different systems over the years, but for him, there's an extra spark he likes about being able to play for Brian Flores.
"From him personally, I like the transparency and the energy that he brings to the team," he explained. "Defensively, I love the versatility of it. We talk a lot about the high I.Q. and being a ball player, knowing what you're supposed to do and where you're supposed to be; I appreciate that aspect."
Wilson also spoke about his willingness to play wherever he's needed, circling back to when he was a rookie coming into the league.
"It's been awesome on (special) teams; that's how I made my first 53-man roster," he said. "I respect the game, and I'm willing to play anywhere that's needed. I'll start every snap on defense and still play every snap on teams if I have to. I just love ball, I love the game and this defense."
Despite not having previously teamed with most of the players on the current Vikings roster, Wilson still feels connected to them in one way or another.
"A lot of guys on the team, even though I might not have started off with them here, I played against them and they're all great guys. Josh [Metellus] is a great guy — comes in, works hard, and he's earned everything he has right now. Justin [Jefferson is] balling. I played with [Aaron Jones, Sr.] in Green Bay. I'm glad he's on my team. He's a hell of a running back."
Wilson got to finish off Vikings minicamp on a high note with an interception on the last day of practice.
"It feels good to make plays, to be out there and to help our defense be a great defense."
