4 former Vikings players who have thrived elsewhere in 2022

Jerick McKinnon – RB

Jerick McKinnon’s story is an inspiring one. A series of unfortunate injuries threatened to end his NFL career almost before it began, but the dual-threat running back is enjoying a new lease of life with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022 and looks set to be a leading contributor throughout their expected deep postseason run.

McKinnon is one of the league’s better backs when it comes to impacting the passing game. His slick route-running out of the backfield is a nice security blanket for Patrick Mahomes, which is matched by an electrifying potential that is a threat to score every time he touches the football.

Momentum is everything for running backs. McKinnon made full use of what could have been his final opportunity with a contender, amassing 797 all-purpose yards and nine combined touchdowns through 16 games with the promise of more to come when the playoffs begin.

Given the Chiefs traded Tyreek Hill to the Miami Dolphins, Andy Reid’s been forced into a more collective approach. Something that’s benefitted McKinnon more than most, and if the same trend continues, the former Georgia Southern star might be looking at a bigger financial commitment than the $1.04 million he’s currently counting against the salary cap.

This is a fantastic story, and no Vikings fan will want anything but the best for McKinnon. Especially after countless injury concerns in recent years.