Minnesota Vikings Free Agency Tracker: The Latest Rumors and Reports
The legal tampering period of NFL free agency got underway on Monday, and there's been a flurry of signings, reports, and rumors all week. After signing Dalvin Tomlinson, Nick Vigil, and Rashod Hill on Monday, the Vikings added Chad Beebe and Patrick Peterson later in the week. They're down to roughly $4 million in cap space but can create more with contract extensions for Harrison Smith or Danielle Hunter.
Here's everything we know. This post will be updated as more news comes in.
Vikings being considered by guard Forrest Lamp
The Vikings might be close to landing a guard, which would certainly please their fanbase. Former Chargers guard Forrest Lamp is considering the Vikings among other teams, according to Chris Tomasson. He started all 16 games for the Chargers last year after dealing with major injuries in his first three NFL seasons. Lamp was the 38th overall pick in 2017 and is just 27 years old, so there's a lot of upside there if he can stay healthy. But that's a big if, given his lengthy injury history.
Mike Zimmer lands veteran corner and future Hall of Famer in Patrick Peterson
The Vikings needed a veteran cornerback, and they got one of the best of the last decade. Patrick Peterson's play has slipped a little over the past two years, but prior to that he began his career with eight straight Pro Bowl appearances. If Peterson can bounce back in a new defensive scheme, he'll be a great signing. It's a one-year deal with a $9 million cap hit.
Vikings interested in ex-Falcons safety Keanu Neal
Per Josina Anderson and other reports, the Vikings have shown early interest in former Falcons safety Keanu Neal. If they can't bring back Anthony Harris, Neal could be an intriguing replacement option. The 2016 first-round pick turns 26 this summer and had a much-needed bounce-back season last year after being ravaged by injuries in 2018 and 2019. If he stays healthy, he can be a dynamic all-around safety. There are at least five other teams also showing interest in Neal.
Vikings have offer out to Mackensie Alexander for a potential return
The Vikings have made a habit of bringing players back after one season away from the team. Shamar Stephen, Ifeadi Odenigbo, and Stephen Weatherly are all examples of that. Now it sounds like they could turn to a former player to address their need at cornerback. Minnesota has an offer out to Mackensie Alexander, according to the Star Tribune's Ben Goessling. Alexander played four seasons with the Vikings and spent last season with the Bengals. I'd expect the Vikings to make at least one solid addition to their secondary.
Vikings making a push to keep safety Anthony Harris
It was assumed that Vikings safety Anthony Harris, who was franchise tagged last season, would wind up signing a big contract elsewhere in free agency this offseason. But Minnesota is apparently making a push to keep Harris, per Darren Wolfson of KSTP, which could indicate that his market hasn't been as strong as he may have hoped. Cleveland, a potential suitor, signed the younger John Johnson III earlier on Monday. There are still several intriguing landing spots for Harris out there, but maybe he'll be interested in remaining with Harrison Smith in the Vikings' secondary. They need to continue clearing up cap space after signing Dalvin Tomlinson.
Vikings sign ex-Giants nose tackle Dalvin Tomlinson to play three-technique
The Vikings are going with a massive interior duo in their defensive line, signing Tomlinson to play with Michael Pierce, last year's major free agent acquisition. Tomlinson is 27 years old and has been consistently good in his four seasons with the Giants. He inks a two-year, $22 million deal that will allow him to hit free agency again soon. The Vikings are hoping the two run-stuffers can offer just enough interior pressure for their edge rushers to shine. Full story with details here.
Nick Vigil added for linebacker depth
With Eric Wilson likely on his way out of town this year, the Vikings have added some depth in sixth-year linebacker Nick Vigil. He spent his first two NFL seasons playing for new Vikings senior defensive assistant Paul Guenther when Guenther was the Bengals' defensive coordinator. For a one-year deal with $1.35 million guaranteed and a maximum value of $2.3 million, it's a solid pickup. Vigil can compete with Troy Dye and other for Minnesota's No. 3 LB job.
Keep an eye on Will Parks, again
The Vikings have long been interested in former Broncos and Eagles safety Will Parks. They tried to sign him last offseason, tried to trade for him with Philly, and then tried to claim him when he hit waivers. Now he's a free agent, so don't be surprised if he winds up in Minnesota.
Parks could be a bargain option to potentially replace Anthony Harris as a starting safety for the Vikings. He has just 18 career starts with four interceptions and 13 passes defended.
Vikings bring back Rashod Hill
The Vikings have made their second addition of the offseason (following Stephen Weatherly early this month). They're bringing back Hill on a one-year deal. Details and analysis here.
Vikings miss out on a number of big fish
The Vikings were reportedly interested in players like Joe Thuney (the top guard on the market), edge rushers Carl Lawson and Trey Hendrickson, and cornerback Shaquill Griffin. They had offers out to several of those players on Monday. But Thuney signed with the Chiefs, Lawson with the Jets, Hendrickson with the Bengals, and Griffin with the Jaguars.
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