Terence Newman returns to the Minnesota Vikings for 2017 season

Dec 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Terence Newman (23) during a game at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Vikings 17-15. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Terence Newman (23) during a game at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Vikings 17-15. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Vikings and Terence Newman have agreed upon a contract that will bring the veteran cornerback back to the team for the 2017 NFL season.

One of the hardest things for a team to do in free agency is retain impact players once they hit free agency. Thankfully, the Minnesota Vikings have been able to hold on to some of their talent, including a veteran cornerback.

The team announced on their official website that defensive back Terence Newman would be returning to the Vikings for the 2017 season following the two sides agreeing to terms on a new contract.

Minnesota also took to social media, where the move was shared on their official team Twitter account.

Newman will celebrate his 39th birthday during the 2017 season, making him one an ironman in the sport of football. Considering the combination of physical play and athletic ability necessary to play his position, it is amazing he is still a major contributor.

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This will be his 15th season in the National Football League, and the official Vikings website had a quick rundown of his recent statistics:

"“Newman has started 26 of 31 games since arriving in Minnesota in 2015, totaling 121 tackles (95 solo), four interceptions, 21 pass breakups and six tackles for loss. The 2016 season was the eighth in which Newman had played with Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer as his head coach or defensive coordinator.”"

Newman will likely challenge Trae Waynes for a starting job, but should see a bit of a decreased role from previous seasons. However, the veteran cornerback doesn’t seem to mind that, and instead is focused on bringing a championship to Minnesota.

Next: Vikings free agency tracker

Congratulations to Terence Newman on returning to the Minnesota Vikings for the 2017 NFL season. He should continue to prove to be a valuable asset in a tough Vikings defense.

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