When you look at this offseason’s free agent class for the Minnesota Vikings, you will be hard pressed to find a likely starter in the bunch besides fullback Jerome Felton. Jerome Simpson is likely, too, but not during the first three weeks when he will be serving his suspension.
After those two guys, I think the most free agent signing most likely to win a starting job has to be cornerback Chris Carr (setting aside injury scenarios).
The 29 year old cornerback has had a solid seven year career up until last season’s hamstring injury ended a 96 game playing streak.
“If you’re out of the mix long enough, you might just be left out,” Carr said about his demotion in Baltimore last season. “It’s like you have to reprove yourself all over again. It feels pretty good now that I have that chance.”
Carr knew he had the skills to continue playing in the NFL, however.
“If you’re versatile, you’ll always find a job somewhere,” Carr said.
By “versatility” Carr means that he can play both inside and outside effectively, and he could be asked to do just that in Minnesota. Chris Cook seems certain to man one of the starting spots on the outside, but a combination of Antoine Winfield and Carr seems likely for the other outside spot and nickel duties.
There has been some good debate in the comments section about what exactly Winfield’s role will be this year, and I personally believe that the answer will greatly depend on Carr’s ability to step up as a solid starter.
View Comments
I really don't think Winfield will be starting. If he starts, it will be that token start plays first play then on the sidelines. I think will be a very good nickel back. I really want the Vikings to play younger players and let them develop.