10 bold predictions for the Minnesota Vikings 2023 offseason
By Chris Schad
Patrick Peterson and Dalvin Tomlinson will leave in free agency
Patrick Peterson and Dalvin Tomlinson were two of the leaders of the Vikings’ defense, but with a rebuild on the horizon, both players might be headed elsewhere this spring.
Peterson had a renaissance last season and has become one of the leaders in the locker room. His five interceptions were the most since he picked off seven passes in 2012, and there’s a valid argument to bring him back for one more year.
The problem is that Peterson is 32 and is one year removed from an injury-riddled 2021 campaign. With Cameron Dantzler, Duke Shelley, Andrew Booth Jr., and Akayleb Evans on the roster, the Vikings could go with a youth movement at cornerback or sign someone who won’t demand a major increase on the $4 million Peterson earned last season.
Tomlinson is another interesting case, as he’s coming off his best season in Minnesota. At age 28, Tomlinson is young enough to make an impact for years to come, but the Vikings are already paying Harrison Phillips $6.8 million next season.
The current regime didn’t sign Tomlinson, so it’s possible the Vikings let him walk to find a cheaper option in free agency. Either way, both veterans could be gone as the Vikings try to get younger and cheaper on the defense.