Troy Dye has secured an opportunity to become a full-time starter with a new team.
The Los Angeles Chargers announced Monday that the former Oregon Ducks’ standout linebacker has signed a one-year deal with them, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
#Vikings LB and special teamer Troy Dye is signing with the #Chargers on a 1-year deal, source said. MIN wanted him back, but Dye will have a chance to play more of a role on defense in LA.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 15, 2024
Dye, aged 27, was selected in the fourth round (No. 132) by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2020 NFL draft and spent his first four seasons with the team. During his tenure in Minnesota, he started in eight out of 60 games, accumulating 80 combined tackles, two passes defended, and a sack.
While Dye’s contributions on defense were notable, he made a significant impact on special teams. He logged 1,094 snaps on special teams throughout his career, with a particularly active role last season, participating in 67% of the available snaps for the Vikings. Notably, Dye led the Vikings with 11 special teams tackles under the coordination of Ryan Ficken, who is now the Chargers’ Special Teams Coordinator.
With a vacancy at the linebacker position for the Chargers, Dye stands a good chance of earning a starting role, especially following Eric Kendricks’ departure to the Dallas Cowboys after just one season.
Additionally, Dye will reunite with Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, with whom he played at Oregon from 2016 to 2019.
