5 former Vikings who could return to the team in free agency in 2023

Mike Hughes – CB

Cornerback is one of the Vikings’ biggest needs as they head into free agency. They currently only have three cornerbacks under contract, and only one has more than one season of experience. The Vikings need some more players who have been battle-tested in the league. One former Viking who could provide some quality depth is Mike Hughes.

The Vikings drafted Hughes in the first round back in 2018. His career with the Purple was riddled with injuries, as he started just seven games for the team. He was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs for a seventh-round pick in 2021, finishing his Vikings’ career with 80 tackles, 13 passes defended, and two interceptions.

Hughes ended up making the Chiefs and had a decent season racking up 47 tackles and an interception. He signed with Detroit in 2022 and started six games totaling 51 tackles and grading out with a PFF score just below 60.

Hughes is just 26-years-old. He does have some playmaking ability with the ball in his hands and also has experience returning kicks. He shouldn’t cost a ton on the open market and would at least give the Vikings an experienced veteran who can help mentor their young group of corners.