6 free agents the Minnesota Vikings should avoid in 2021
By Adam Patrick
A.J. Green – WR
- Age: 32
- 2020 Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Not long ago, A.J. Green was regarded as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL. But during his last two years on the field, Green has seen his production experience a significant downturn.
After beginning his career with five-straight seasons with at least 1,000 receiving yards, the veteran pass-catcher has only accumulated more than 1,000 receiving yards once in the last five years.
Green should still have something to offer an NFL team in 2021 and he would be a great addition to the Vikings offense. However, his price tag will likely be too high and his decrease in production should be enough to convince Minnesota to use their money elsewhere.
Cam Newton – QB
- Age: 31
- 2020 Team: New England Patriots
As much as Cam Newton would be a tremendous upgrade over Sean Mannion to be the Vikings No. 2 quarterback in 2021, there’s no guarantee that the former MVP passer would be okay with being a backup.
Despite his massive struggles last season (only eight touchdown passes in 15 games), Newton probably hasn’t given up hope on being a starter in the NFL again. Plus, if Minnesota signed Newton, everyone would be calling for the team to put him in the game the second after Kirk Cousins makes a mistake.
While he would be a great backup behind Cousins, his mere presence could create a distraction that could get in the way of the Vikings achieving their goals next season.