The Minnesota Vikings have been making headlines this summer for their impressive performance in training camp and the preseason games. However, there is one area of concern for the team – their cornerback ranks. With a few key players leaving the team, the Vikings are in need of a strong and experienced cornerback to add to their secondary. And recent rumors have suggested that they may have found the perfect candidate – a four-time Pro Bowler who comes with a hefty price tag of $90 million.
The cornerback position is crucial for any football team, especially in today’s game where the passing game has become more dominant. It is the first line of defense against the opposing team’s wide receivers and tight ends, and a strong cornerback can make all the difference in winning or losing a game. The Vikings are well aware of this fact and have been actively looking to bolster their secondary after their cornerback ranks took a hit over the summer.
One of the biggest departures from the team was cornerback Xavier Rhodes, who was released by the Vikings in March. Rhodes had been with the team since 2013 and was a key player in their defense. However, after a subpar performance last season, the Vikings decided to part ways with the 30-year-old. Another important loss for the Vikings was cornerback Trae Waynes, who signed with the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency. Waynes had been a starter for the Vikings since 2015 and was considered one of the top cornerbacks in the league.
With these two key players gone, the Vikings are in need of a strong and experienced cornerback to fill the void. And according to recent rumors, they may have found their man – a four-time Pro Bowler who has been making waves in the league for his exceptional skills on the field. The player in question is none other than cornerback Josh Norman, who was released by the Washington Football Team earlier this year.
Norman, who is 33 years old, may not be in his prime, but he still has a lot to offer to a team in need of a solid cornerback. He has a wealth of experience, having played in the NFL for nine seasons, and has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with on the field. His aggressive playing style and knack for making game-changing plays have earned him a reputation as one of the best cornerbacks in the league. And with four Pro Bowl selections under his belt, Norman is a proven asset that could greatly benefit the Vikings’ secondary.
Of course, the $90 million price tag attached to Norman’s name may raise some eyebrows. However, it’s important to remember that the Vikings have the salary cap space to make this move. Plus, with the recent departures of Rhodes and Waynes, the team has some extra funds to play with. And when you consider Norman’s track record and the impact he could have on the Vikings’ defense, the price seems like a worthwhile investment.
Another advantage of adding Norman to the team is his experience playing in a similar defensive system. He has previously worked with Vikings’ head coach Mike Zimmer during his time with the Carolina Panthers, where he earned his first Pro Bowl selection under Zimmer’s guidance. This familiarity with Zimmer’s defensive schemes could make for a smooth transition for Norman, allowing him to quickly adapt to the Vikings’ playbook and make an immediate impact on the field.
While nothing has been confirmed yet, the rumors of Norman’s potential move to the Vikings have already sparked excitement among fans. Many see this as a smart and necessary move for the team, and are eagerly waiting to see if it will come to fruition. And with the regular season just around the corner, the timing couldn’t be better for the Vikings to add a player of Norman’s caliber to their secondary.
In conclusion, the Minnesota Vikings are in a prime position to add a strong and experienced cornerback to their secondary this month. And according to recent rumors, the team has their eyes set on four-time Pro Bowler Josh Norman. While the price may seem steep, Norman’s track record and familiarity with the defensive system make him a valuable addition to the team. As a fan, I am excited and hopeful for the Vikings to make this move and strengthen their defense for the upcoming season. Skol Vikings!