5 high-risk free agents the Vikings could sign in 2021

Cam Newton – QB

This might be a little out of left-field, but there could be some benefits to bringing Cam Newton to the Vikings in free agency.

The Panthers mercilessly released the 2015 NFL MVP at a time when there were few starting opportunities available elsewhere. Newton did get a No. 1 gig again with the New England Patriots, but one could argue this was the worst possible landing spot for the player.

A host of defensive opt-outs due to COVID-19 didn’t help Newton’s cause and the signal-caller also contracted the virus himself when he was generating some serious momentum.

This had a lingering effect on Newton – which he freely admitted – and the lack of weapons in the passing game also limited his ability to make the sort of impact he wanted in a different environment.

Now, there is no chance of Newton taking Kirk Cousins’ place atop Minnesota’s depth chart. But there might be some value in bringing him in as a backup capable of making a difference in special run packages if this is something he’s keen on.

Vikings Draft 2021: Post-Super Bowl four-round mock draft

With the Super Bowl now in the rearview mirror, who are some of the prospects the Minnesota Vikings might select in the 2021 NFL Draft?

Whether someone like Newton is willing to hold a clipboard on the sidelines and be used in a limited role after such an iconic career is up for debate. But the simple fact of the matter is he may not have a choice if the signal-caller wants to stay in the league.