Minnesota Vikings: Ranking priority of in-house free agents

The Minnesota Vikings have 17 free agents that have their contracts expiring for the team entering the 2016 season, but who should come back to the team?

Each year, the NFL season comes to and end and many players are left with their contracts expiring. It’s a tough time when teams like the Minnesota Vikings are forced to evaluate their roster and decide which players should or should not come back to the team.

Sadly, it’s not only up to the team, but the players as well. Negotiating a contract can be a tough time and result in players moving on from their former squads even if they’re a good fit. That’s why free agency can be such an interesting time in the NFL.

The Minnesota Vikings always put priority in free agency on keeping their own talent. Because of that, it’s interesting to take a look at the in-house free agents and see who the team should be making sure to try to keep for the future.

Here are the top 10 players that the Vikings should be trying to be sure to get back for the 2016 NFL season:

Mike Harris: He was absolutely dominant at right guard for most of the 2015 season and has earned the right to start at that spot going forward. Hopefully, his good season doesn’t make him an expensive free agent, as his resume is pretty light on success.

Terence Newman: While he might be an old man, he’s still effective. Although the Minnesota Vikings will likely be ready to move on to Trae Waynes as a starter, there is still plenty of room in the cornerback depth for a player that fits with Zimmer’s style.

Matt Asiata: He’s a bowling ball out of the backfield, a solid run blocker, and has shown that he can catch the ball out of the backfield. The Vikings would be silly to let him walk in free agency to work with Jerick McKinnon to back up Adrian Peterson.

Adam Thielen: Not only did the team enjoy using him in special packages on offense, but he’s had some amazing special teams plays and some big catches. Even if they don’t see him as a great pass catcher, he can contribute in many ways.

Rhett Ellison: He’s a tough tight end that can block and has surprisingly soft hands as a pass catcher. He’s become a big part of the Minnesota Vikings offense.

Chad Greenway: Greenway wants one more season with the Vikings, but will the Vikings want him back? We’ll find out if the thumping veteran linebacker can get a spot back with the team.

Zach Line: Seeming to improve as the season went on, Line could be developing into the fullback that Minnesota needs. However, it is yet to be seen if he can be solid on a regular basis.

Audie Cole: Injury concerns bump him down the list, but he’s a solid player to plug into multiple places as a linebacker and is a regular contributor on special teams.

Andrew Sendejo: I know what you’re thinking, but he shouldn’t return as a starter. I enjoy him in a reserve role and he’s an excellent special teams player.

Marcus Sherels: Every single year, people count out Marcus Sherels. Every year, he makes plays and makes the roster. He might not be a great cornerback, but he’s got special teams on lock.

The rest of the free agents: Kenrick Ellis, Justin Trattou, Jason Trusnik, Carter Bykowski, Josh Robinson, Robert Blanton, Casey Matthews.

Which of the 17 free agents do you think should come back to the Minnesota Vikings and why? Who should the team let walk? Discuss it in the comments below.

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