5 high-risk free agents the Vikings could sign in 2021
By Dean Jones
Aldon Smith – OLB
Aldon Smith was given a second chance of making a name for himself in the NFL this season. The ferocious edge rusher was once one of the most talented young players in the business before a lengthy suspension that saw him exiled from the league.
Four years later, Smith signed a short-term deal with the Dallas Cowboys and was given a reprieve by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. This was the last chance saloon for the No. 7 overall selection back in 2011 and it’s safe to say he made the most of it.
Smith burst onto the scene early in the season to such a degree that it looked like he’d never been away. The Cowboys may have struggled overall, but it’s hard to look at the outside linebacker’s production during the campaign and not be encouraged.
Dallas could have some complications regarding their salary-cap this offseason due to COVID-19 revenue losses, which will only heighten if they franchise tag quarterback Dak Prescott for a second-straight year. This might mean Smith will have to take his chances elsewhere, and providing he continues his good behavior, he is an option worth considering for the Vikings.
It remains to be seen whether Minnesota bring back Anthony Barr and Eric Wilson in 2021. But even if both stay around, adding someone with Smith’s pass-rushing prowess would be a significant asset to call upon.