View the best images of DT Tom Johnson from his first year as a Viking.
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — The Vikings on Wednesday announced defensive tackle Tom Johnson will be returning to the team with a multi-year contract.
Johnson joined the Vikings via **free agency in 2014** and carved out a role as a reserve after a career that included stints in NFL Europa, the Arena Football League, the Canadian Football League and three seasons with the New Orleans Saints (**click here** to read more about that journey).
Johnson finished second on the Vikings with 6.5 sacks, showing pass-rush skills he said he honed in the CFL. Johnson had 32 tackles, eight tackles for loss and 30 quarterback hurries (coaches' tallies) in his first season in Minnesota.
The productivity of Johnson was cited by Vikings General Manager Rick Spielman as a player who was added to the team through a **patient approach** during free agency last year.
The Vikings have starters Shariff Floyd and Linval Joseph at defensive tackle, but retaining Johnson and developing 2014 draft pick Shamar Stephen, provides added depth at physically demanding posts.
Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer likes to work a rotation on the defensive line, and Johnson's ability to rush helps Minnesota's nickel package that is deployed in likely pass situations on third downs.
