5 Vikings players that should stick around for the 2023 season
By Chris Schad
Patrick Peterson – CB
Another question the Vikings should ask themselves is which positions need time to develop. A receiver or a running back could instantly jump-start either side of the ball, but cornerback is another position where it’s rare for a rookie to make an immediate impact.
That should make Patrick Peterson attractive to the Vikings this offseason. Peterson’s All-Pro days are long behind him as he’s set to turn 33 in July, but he’s the safe veteran that the Vikings could use in their secondary.
Experience could be key as the Vikings have several players that don’t seem to be ready for a starting role. Cameron Dantzler lost his starting job to Duke Shelley at the end of last season and both could be out the door with Shelley slated to be a free agent. Akayleb Evans flashed at times but he can’t be counted on with three concussions last season.
With Andrew Booth Jr. recovering from knee surgery and Chandon Sullivan likely to leave in free agency, the cornerback corps needs some stability even if they decide to sign a veteran.
Peterson’s price will be higher than it was this time a year ago but if the Vikings can’t find a younger upgrade, it would be worth bringing one of their defensive leaders back for at least one more season.