The NFL off-season is working its way into full swing and with that, teams like the Minnesota Vikings are figuring out what their off-season is going to look like. There are holes all over the Minnesota roster but there are three positions in particular that the team must look at in free agency when it begins on March 11.
The cornerback position is one that must be addressed in either free agency or in the draft. From a free agent point of view, the names Vontae Davis and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie come to mind as the top choices. It is likely that those two are going to command a ton of money however. The name Sam Shields could come into play for the Vikings. He is familiar with the division from his time with the Packers and is still young enough to make a major impact on the Minnesota secondary. This is a position where the Vikings could use their No. 8 pick on in the NFL Draft as well.
Also in the secondary is the safety position. If the Vikings are going to make a move in free agency, this is likely where it is going to need to be. Jairus Byrd would be a great player to add if he decides he wants to leave the Bills. The Browns’ T.J. Ward is another solid thought but could end up getting the franchise tag from Cleveland. If the Vikings are going to go after Byrd though, it is going to take a ton of money to get him and likely the biggest contract ever for a safety.
A position that may seem surprising would be defensive end. Jared Allen is an unrestricted free agent and may not be back in 2014. There is some extra money to work with since the team released linebacker Erin Henderson last week. That money will need to go somewhere and if it isn’t for a safety or cornerback, then it must go to the defensive end position. Cincinnati’s Michael Johnson will be available and is five years younger than Allen. He will be looking for big money like all the others but the Vikings must plug one of their holes with a big-time free agent. There is always the draft in May as well but the team should be looking to fill at least one of these key positions before the draft even arrives.