Shamar Stephen is called the "Big Fundamental" by his Vikings position coach, co-defensive coordinator Andre Patterson, which is a nod to former San Antonio Spurs superstar Tim Duncan and Stephen's quiet proficiency at defensive tackle.
So, there is little surprise about how the Vikings' plans have unfolded to replace nose tackle Michael Pierce, the prized free-agent signing who opted out of the season because of COVID-19 concerns. Stephen has been moved to nose tackle, and Jaleel Johnson is expected to replace him at defensive tackle.
Stephen, a former 2014 seventh-round pick, moves back to where he started his NFL career, and where holding up multiple 300-pound offensive linemen can be a thankless job.