Veteran Linebacker Van Noy Joins Vikings, Reunites with Flores

Linebacker Kyle Van Noy has agreed to a deal with the Minnesota Vikings, reportedly starting on the practice squad to get up to speed. The 34-year-old spent the last three seasons with Baltimore, where he earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2024 with 12.5 sacks. He reunites with defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who coached him during his Patriots tenure that included two Super Bowl wins.

Van Noy's arrival gives Minnesota an experienced pass-rushing option who has played in multiple defensive schemes. His 2024 Pro Bowl season with Baltimore demonstrated he can still produce at a high level, though his 2025 output dropped to two sacks. The practice squad start allows him time to learn Flores's system before being elevated.

The Vikings' current linebacker group includes young players like Dallas Turner and Ivan Pace Jr., so Van Noy's veteran presence could provide mentorship. His history with Flores dates to New England's Super Bowl-winning seasons in 2016 and 2018, when Flores served as a linebackers coach. Van Noy was a second-round pick in 2014 out of BYU and has also played for Detroit, Miami, and the Chargers.