MINNEAPOLIS -- With the new league year underway, the Minnesota Vikings got to work bringing back one of their own on Tuesday.
Offensive lineman Joe Berger, who started nine games for the team last season at right guard, has agreed to stay with the Vikings on a two-year deal, according to his agent, Tom Tafelski.
"He's excited to be able to play in the new stadium (the Vikings will open in 2016)," Tafelski said. "It's a great organization, a great sports city, a great quality of life. We're excited we got it done."
Berger, 32, who grew up in Michigan, first joined the Vikings in 2011 after five seasons with the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys. He said late last season that he wanted to return to the Vikings, and negotiations picked up on a deal on Tuesday.
It remains to be seen whether the Vikings will pursue another veteran to replace Charlie Johnson at left guard, or if Berger will get a chance to compete for a starting spot. At the very least, however, he returns as a valuable and versatile backup who has experience at virtually every spot on the offensive line.
