The Minnesota Vikings dive into free agency 2012 was truly something to see. Here it is:
TE John Carlson
RB Lex Hilliard
FB Jerome Felton
OL Geoff Schwartz
CB Zack Bowman
CB Chris Carr
WR Bryan Walters
CB/WR Nick Taylor
Wow! Carlson is the only player that signed for more than one year (5 years). His contract is also the only one that might be called something close to lucrative. Nick Taylor was a basketball player at Florida International. He might be considered a longshot to even make it to training camp, let alone out of training camp. Despite the likely chuckles, I actually like what the Vikings have done. I'd like to see them add a safety (Melvin Bullitt?). The Vikings apparently looked to spend some cash on receiver Pierre Garcon as soon as free agency opened. They just didn't want to spend as much as the Washington Redskins did. Few do. The Vikings knew when to say when and stuck to their plan of spending wisely. Creating competition can be more productive than adding a star. Carr and Bowman will create competition at corner. As will Schwartz at guard. If the Vikings do draft USC tackle Matt Kalil, adding Schwartz may actually give the Vikings a very solid offensive line. One that's very young as well. Quarterback Christian Ponder should sleep easier and stay on his feet longer. Schwartz is the free agent that I'm most sure the Vikings will try to sign long term during or after the season. His future is bright and I hope that it's in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Vikings are a better team now than they were at the end of the season. They kept their few key free agents and signed some that will create competition at key positions and provide depth. No stars were added, although John Carlson could be, but they are in a nice place heading into the draft.
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