Remaining Free Agent Targets for the Vikings

With free agency in full swing, players have been signing contracts at a historic pace. The Vikings have been right in the middle of the free agent frenzy as they signed arguably the top offensive and defensive players available in Kirk Cousins and Sheldon Richardson. With two big money contracts done and the possibility of extending Anthony Barr‘s contract, Minnesota does not appear to be in play for any other big names. However, there are a few mid-market players the Vikings could and should look at.

Jack Mewhort

Though linemen are often hot commodities, there has not seemed to be a big market for former Colt Mewhort. By all accounts, he has not gone on any official visits to teams, and his name has not been in headlines at all. When healthy, Mewhort has been one of the better linemen in football. But it appears that his non-availability is what is causing the lack of interest. With Joe Berger and Jeremiah Sirles potentially on their way out, the need for a player like Mewhort is at the top of the Vikings’ list. Health permitting, Mewhort is a penciled-in starter that will not break the bank.

Bryce Callahan 

Terence Newman is likely gone and Mackensie Alexander is still developing. As such, the Vikings are relatively thin at nickel corner. That would especially be true if the rumors of Alexander bumping outside come to fruition. Enter the former Bear Callahan. Callahan is best remembered Minnesota fans as the guy who scored on the trick punt play during Week 17 of this past season. However, he is a solid slot corner, earning a Pro Football Focus grade of 82.9. That was good enough for 31st-best among corners.

Though a relative unknown, Callahan has been an above-averae corner the last few years. The Bears extended a one-year tender on Callahan, but the Vikings could get him with a stronger offer. Like Mewhort, the market for Callahan has been minimal. Right now, it appears the Bears are the favorites to keep him in the fold. But the Minnesota has expressed interest and remain in the fold.

 

Available cap room is starting to close for the Vikings. But with Mewhort and Callahan still available, Minnesota has the chance to add two solid players for modest prices. They have hit a few home runs in free agency already. Now it is time to start looking to hit some doubles.

– Anthony Talanca writes for Full Press Coverage and covers the Vikings. Follow him @atalanca and follow @FPC_Vikings.

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