Who will the Vikings replace Marcus Sherels with in 2019?

Free Agent Options

De’Anthony Thomas – WR

Thomas held the job as the Kansas City Chiefs’ punt returner for two seasons before Tyreek Hill came and snatched it away from him. Thomas has returned 72 punts during his five years in the NFL, averaging 9.7 yards per return and bringing one back the other way for a touchdown.

He’s coming off a 2018 season that lasted only five games because of a broken leg and it should be noted that he was arrested in January on suspicion of marijuana possession. Thomas could be facing discipline from the league as a result of the incident.

Darren Sproles – RB

Despite the fact that he will be 36-years-old in June, Sproles hasn’t announced his retirement yet. If he doesn’t end up back with the Philadelphia Eagles, the veteran running back could be an intriguing free agent for the Vikings to consider signing.

Not only could he provide a veteran presence in Minnesota’s locker room and also help with Dalvin Cook’s progression, Sproles could fill the team’s punt returner opening. He has returned 300 punts in his NFL career and he is one of the best to ever do it.

Adam Jones – CB

Jones made a name for himself early in his NFL career as a return specialist. During his first two seasons in the league, he took four of his 63 punt returns and turned them into touchdowns.

Now 35-years-old, Jones may be a little slower these days, but he can still make plays when he needs to. He’s also a fan of Mike Zimmer’s since the Vikings’ current head coach helped him evolve into one of the NFL’s most solid cornerbacks when the two were both members of the Cincinnati Bengals.

Jones was arrested in February for battery and public intoxication after an incident at an Indiana Casino. This is certainly not his first run in with the law since he’s been in the league and it’s something that could prevent Minnesota from taking a chance on him.