Jason Peters
The third way the Vikings could look for an answer to their hole at left tackle would be to dive into free agency and sign someone to do the job cheaper or better than Riley Reiff had been doing. Either way, they will need to spend the money they saved on cutting Reiff if the team goes this route.
Free agency’s top options are Trent Williams, Alejandro Villanueva, and Russell Okung, but all of those will likely be too expensive to be realistic options for Minnesota. The next name on that list is former Philadelphia Eagles left tackle, Jason Peters.
Peters wouldn’t be a long-term answer at left tackle. At 39-years-old, it is a bit surprising that he is returning for his 18th season in 2021. But having a blocker to fill in for even one season could be huge for the Vikings.
Bringing in Peters on a cheap deal would allow them to give Ezra Cleveland more time to develop and prepare for a future at left tackle. Plus, having a veteran presence on the line and in the locker room could do wonders for the young players.
While not an ideal situation, it could be a temporary bandage to apply until a better option is available.