2017 NFL Free Agency: 5 Underrated Targets for Minnesota Vikings
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With only a week left in the Minnesota Vikings’ 2016 season, it’s time to take a look at a few underrated free agents they could target in 2017
After starting the season 5-0, the Minnesota Vikings only have a week left before they go on an early vacation. It was a disappointing year overall in the Twin Cities, but this team has plenty to build on heading into next season.
The fun will start when 2017 NFL free agency gets under way in early March. At that time, the Vikings will be looking to add some quality names to their roster. Especially with the few holes that turned out to be glaring in 2016, Minnesota must find ways to improve when the new league year begins.
Now I know folks love to look at some of the big-name players who could be options (you can do that here). For now, though, I want to focus on some of the lesser-known guys who could come into play for the Vikings.
Seeing as they likely won’t have a ton of cap space to work with, the Vikings will need to make the most of what they have. That means looking for bargains via free agency. Thankfully, there should be several worthy of consideration when that time comes.
So let’s take a look at five underrated players I’ve tabbed as potential targets for Minnesota when 2017 NFL free agency rolls around.
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5. Benny Cunningham, RB — Los Angeles Rams
It’s unclear what the future holds for Adrian Peterson. Plus, we saw this season that the duo of Jerick McKinnon and Matt Asiata can’t necessarily keep the ground game afloat. That’s why adding another contributor in the backfield would be wise heading into 2017. One underrated option the Vikings should keep an eye on is Benny Cunningham.
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The Rams’ backup running back has flown under the radar for much of his short career. Although his overall production isn’t all that impressive, I believe he’s got the tools to be an exceptional asset as part of a running-back-by-committee approach.
Los Angeles struggled to move the football on the ground in 2016, although a lot of the blame can be placed on their pitiful offensive line. Todd Gurley had a disastrous season after breaking out as a rookie, but the Rams gave him every opportunity to make something out of nothing. That left Cunningham with few opportunities.
When he did get the ball, though, the undrafted runner out of Middle Tennessee State didn’t disappoint. In fact, he was often more effective than Gurley, using his instincts and elusiveness to pick up positive yards. Just look at the 4.8 yards per carry (compared to Gurley’s 3.2) he had on the year.
Is Cunningham the next workhorse back in Minnesota? Of course not. But if Peterson isn’t back and Asiata jumps ship, he’s a solid fallback option with the potential to surprise. The best part is he would likely cost less than the $1.67 million he made in 2016.
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4. Stacy McGee, DT — Oakland Raiders
With Sharrif Floyd coming off a lost season and more depth needed at defensive tackle, the Vikings may need to dig deep to find some reasonably priced options along the interior. Based on what I know, though, I think Stacy McGee would be an excellent fit.
A former sixth-round pick, McGee has spent the last few years playing quality football for the Raiders. Although he’s often been buried on the depth chart, he doesn’t disappoint when he’s on the field.
What I really like about McGee is he’s capable of making an impact on every down. Not only does he have the size and power to clog up running lanes, but he even has enough athleticism and explosiveness to collapse the pocket on occasion. The Vikings need more interior pass rush, which makes McGee an intriguing candidate.
Now I wouldn’t be surprised if the Raiders ended up re-signing him. He provides quality depth, and has been one of their better defensive tackles this year. At the same time, they have a logjam at the position, which could force them to let McGee walk. If that’s the case, the Vikings should at least give his agent a call. If the asking price is right, McGee would be a terrific, underrated get for GM Rick Spielman.
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3. Logan Paulsen, TE — Chicago Bears
Honestly, I expected a lot more from Minnesota’s tight ends as a group this year. Kyle Rudolph obviously clicked with Sam Bradford, but MyCole Pruitt disappointed and Rhett Ellison underwhelmed while coming off a serious injury. Moving forward, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Vikings at least looked for some more consistent blocking from the position. If that’s the case, one free agent target to keep in mind is Logan Paulsen.
Now I know the Vikings drafted David Morgan II to be a reliable blocking tight end. He held his own as a rookie, but I’m not entirely sure he’s the long-term answer for the role. Paulsen wouldn’t necessarily be either, but he’s got way more experience and production to fall back on.
This year, the Bears’ blocking tight end has been one of the best in the NFL. He doesn’t offer a ton of upside as a receiver and will be 30 before next season, but brings reliable protection to the table. With the way blocking in general was in Minnesota in 2016, Paulsen’s presence would be welcomed.
Paulsen only made $760,000 last year, and would likely come with a similar price tag this upcoming offseason. If the Vikings aren’t convinced Ellison and Morgan can handle the blocking duties at tight end, the current Bear could find himself on their radar.
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2. Johnathan Cyprien, SS — Jacksonville Jaguars
I’ve never been shy about my malcontent towards Andrew Sendejo. I don’t think he’s a very good safety, and certainly isn’t the running mate that Harrison Smith deserves. The Vikings need to go out this offseason and find a serious playmaker at strong safety. Look no further than Johnathan Cyprien, one of the NFL’s most underrated safeties.
Chances are the former second-round pick doesn’t get the credit he deserves due to the fact he plays for the Jaguars. It’s difficult to care too much about a team that’s that bad. However, for anyone who’s paying attention, it’s easy to see why Jacksonville isn’t too excited about his potential departure in 2017.
Just ask Pro Football Focus, which has Cyprien graded as the No. 8 safety this season. He’s an outstanding playmaker who is absolutely fearless against the run, flying to the football and making life difficult for opposing offensive coordinators. His coverage skills could use some work, but there’s no denying he’s a talent worth having on the roster.
It won’t be easy luring him away from the Jaguars, if they even let him hit the open market. However, if they do, you better believe a number of teams will be interested in the young safety. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Vikings entered the conversation at some point.
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1. Ricky Wagner, OT — Baltimore Ravens
The Vikings picked the worst time to have offensive line issues. Not only are there limited free agency options to upgrade the front five, but even the 2017 NFL Draft is expected to be short on quality blockers. That’s why going after a guy like Ricky Wagner wouldn’t be the worst idea.
I wouldn’t be surprised if the Ravens ended up re-signing Wagner because of his underrated status. However, if he does hit the open market, the Vikings have to jump at the opportunity to sign a quality tackle.
Wagner has held down the starting right tackle job for the past three years in Baltimore. During that time, he’s developed into a reliable presence as both a pass protector and run blocker. It plays into Minnesota’s favor that he’s actually better in pass protection than he is at opening holes in the ground game.
My only concern is his price tag. While he only made $576,140 in 2016, Wagner will likely warrant much more via free agency—especially with the dearth of available talent at offensive tackle. The Vikings aren’t exactly loaded with cap space, which could make life difficult if a bidding war begins.
Still, Minnesota can’t be complacent when it comes to the front five. They need to get better up front in 2017, and that starts with making upgrades to the offensive line. Wagner certainly fits the bill.
