Would free agent running back Theo Riddick bring help to the offensive backfield of the 2019 Minnesota Vikings?
The Detroit Lions recently released running back Theo Riddick and he is now on the open market and setting up team visits across the NFL. Should the Minnesota Vikings consider bringing him aboard for the 2019 season?
Riddick may not be the most imposing back in the league, but he is a versatile weapon. He spent his first six seasons with the Lions before his release and he is valuable enough to sign with a contender at this point in the summer.
If he wants to get some revenge on his former team, the Vikings may be waiting with open arms. Minnesota has the roster in place to compete in 2019 and a disappointing 2018 season is going to drive them this fall.
Adding to Riddick to their current group of talent just might be the finishing touch they need. According to KSTP’s Darren Wolfson on Sunday, the Vikings have even shown interest in the former Detroit running back.
If he were added though, would Riddick help Minnesota this season? The answer is an astounding yes.
The Vikings lost Latavius Murray in free agency this year and Roc Thomas was waived following a three-game suspension. The team drafted Alexander Mattison to be the primary backup to Dalvin Cook, but depth is still key.
Cook has yet to stay healthy for a full season and Mattison is unproven at this point. Riddick is a veteran with a skill set the Vikings should crave. Minnesota has already poached one running back from the Lions in the recent past when they claimed Ameer Abdullah last year.
So what are some of the reasons why the Vikings should and should not attempt to sign Reddick in the near future?