5 free agency bargains the Vikings should consider in 2021
By Dean Jones
Corn Elder – CB
2020 Team: Carolina Panthers
The Vikings might already have their starting cornerback duo for the foreseeable future in Cameron Dantzler and Jeff Gladney. But the future of other cornerbacks on Minnesota’s roster appears far less certain.
Mike Hughes might be a candidate for release after another injury-plagued campaign in 2020, which could result in the decision-makers finally cutting their losses with the former first-round pick. It would be a big surprise if the Vikings brought Chris Jones back after going through his fair share of struggles, with Holton Hill moved on swiftly during the season.
This leaves Minnesota short of options, particularly in the slot. This was an area in which Mackensie Alexander thrived in 2019 before he departed in free agency. But a player like Corn Elder wouldn’t cost the earth and he comes with some high upside.
He finally got the chance to play some prominent reps for the Carolina Panthers in 2020 and he did extremely well in the face of some stern competition. Elder gave up just 27 receptions from 40 targets during the season and although there were some indifferent moments, that was to be expected from someone who hadn’t really seen an NFL field for a lengthy period before.
The Miami product came on considerably as the 2020 season went on – as did Carolina’s defense in general – and this was further reflected in Elder’s encouraging 68.5 grade from Pro Football Focus as a result of his efforts.
His experiences during the season will have done his confidence a world of good. Elder should have a market in free agency if the Panthers can’t keep him around and he is well worth a look from Minnesota’s point of view.