4 high-risk free agents the Vikings should consider in 2022

Joe Haden – CB

The Vikings are continuously facing problems within their cornerback room. Several first-round picks haven’t aided this cause, and with two prominent veterans out of contract this spring, it could be another offseason of significant changes within the secondary once again.

Going down the draft avenue cannot be ruled out. Although there’s no way to tell if this is something the new primary decision-makers in Minnesota will consider after Rick Spielman and Mike Zimmer did this so often during their time with the organization.

If an extension cannot be worked out with Patrick Peterson, then the Vikings must get themselves a veteran piece to go along with the promising Cameron Dantzler. Although it comes with some risk, Joe Haden is someone who could come in and assist in the short-term if he leaves the Pittsburgh Steelers following a successful five-year stint with the franchise.

Haden is a little long in the tooth now and cornerbacks do tend to fall off the cliff quicker than most. He also missed five games through injury last season, which cannot be overlooked.

The three-time Pro Bowler was regarded as one of the best in the business once upon a time. But banking on Haden to provide a spark against some top wide receivers in the NFC North is a significant gamble, to put it mildly.

This comes down to whether the Vikings want to contend or rely on youth. Ambitions will be high from a new leadership team with high standards, but it really is a fine line regarding their aspirations in 2022.