MN Vikings Add D-Line Depth with Former Steeler
When the Minnesota Vikings opted to move on from both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen, they knew rebuilding the defensive line this offseason was a must.
First, they brought back Jalen Redmond, who broke out last season (6 sacks, 12 TFL, 8 QB hits). Then in the NFL Draft, Minnesota used a first round pick on Florida defensive lineman, Caleb Banks, before doubling down with Iowa State DT, Dominique “Big Citrus” Orange in the third round.
Other new faces in the defensive trenches this summer include depth additions like Monkell Goodwine and Smith Vilbert. Still around from last year, along with Redmond, are Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Levi Drake Rodriguez and Taki Taimani.
Isaiahh Loudermilk signs with Minnesota Vikings
Still, the GM-less Vikings decided Thursday to add more depth up front, on that side of the ball, signing 28-year-old Isaiahh Loudermilk, a 6’7″, 293 lb mammoth who spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The #Vikings have signed DL Isaiahh Loudermilk (@iloudermilk111). pic.twitter.com/PP9Z4RPxvp
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) May 21, 2026
Across 60 career games (7 starts), Loudermilk has 1 sack 1 QB hit and 63 total tackles (1 TFL). In 2025, the Wisconsin alum started games one and two of the regular season for Pittsburgh, before a high ankle sprain resulted in season-ending surgery.
The timing couldn’t have been worse. Prior to injury, Loudermilk was on pace to earn the most playing time of his career. Defensively, he was on the field for 29% of snaps (highest since 2021). His special teams usage was down to 19% (tied for second-lowest of career).
Once upon a time, Jerry Kill and the #Gophers staff offered new #Vikings DL Isaiahh Loudermilk. He ultimately chose Wisconsin. 1-year vet minimum deal here. History with Vikes staff, including DC Brian Flores. Has 60 games (seven starts) of NFL experience. pic.twitter.com/TyExjEmUUn
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) May 21, 2026
How much Loudermilk factors into Flores’ defensive configuration remains to be seen. However, If he is battling anyone for a roster spot, it’s guys like Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Taki Taimani and Levi Drake Rodriguez.
If it turns out that rookies Caleb Banks and Dominique Orange aren’t quite NFL-ready, come the start of the Minnesota Vikings 2026 regular season on September 13, Isaiahh Loudermilk is another good depth option they can turn to.
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