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He’s back, but what’s he worth to the Minnesota Vikings?
After Adrian Peterson’s reinstatement on Friday, April 17th, fans were again left to wonder — will he stay or will he go?
We’ve debated the topic for months, nitpicking, analyzing, and breaking down every statement or piece of news surrounding Adrian Peterson. While exhausting, it’s necessary when the situation involves the league’s best running back and longtime key to the Vikings’ success.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Adam Caplan reported that the Vikings are seeking “at least” a first-round pick and “more compensation” for Peterson. That compensation would likely include a starting cornerback, which the Vikings consider to be their greatest position of need.
Contrary to my latest mock draft, Caplan writes that the Vikings believe they can find a starting-caliber cornerback in the second round. I originally mocked Michigan State corner Trae Waynes to Minnesota with the 11th-overall pick, but Mike Zimmer and the front office may not love Waynes as previously reported.
Utah’s Eric Rowe, Connecticut’s Byron Jones, and Florida State’s Ronald Darby may be available when the Vikings select in the second round, shifting their focus away from players like Waynes and Washington’s Marcus Peters early in the draft.
The speculation, though, may end up as nothing more than that. The Raiders were reportedly interested in Peterson, and Peterson has expressed interest in playing for the Cowboys. However, are those teams prepared to gamble away their futures on a 30-year-old running back? Not only is Peterson past the “golden age” for running backs, he’s set to count for $12.75 million against the salary cap next season and still has $44.25 million remaining on his contract through 2017.
All signs point to a training camp standoff in Minnesota this summer, and it appears Rick Spielman is prepared to weather Peterson’s contract demands. If the Vikings do go all-in on trading the disgruntled star, what do you think he’s worth?
Answer the poll and share your thoughts in the comments below!:
[Austin’s note: Just wanted to say I’m happy to be back writing about the team I love and interacting with all of you! I’ve been away caring for my mother in the hospital, but she’s undergone a successful surgery and is now recovering. I look forward to her continued health and starting thoughtful conversations with all of the readers at Vikings Territory!]
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Not sure what he's actually worth after a year on the couch, but the price tag Spielman is rumored to have placed on Petterson is little more than a statement that the team wants him in purple. Everyone saying that a 1st and a starter is nuts and the team needs to lower their expectations and their asking price, dont get it. The team isnt trying to sell Peterson. But if someone comes around with a golden egg laying goose they are open to consideration.
Bottom line, this is yet another attempt to prove to Peterson that he is loved.
Maybe a conditional 2nd?
Nothing less than 1st 2nd 3rd 4th from Dallas any one else who's not in our devision 1st 3rd or top 10 pick
This draft is week. Gurley is probably the best player if scouts are comparing him to Pederson and Lynch. I don't care what the media people say. Keep Pederson and draft Gurley at 11. Then we have something. Supply and demand. Elementary. FYI Remember the Vikes had Chris Carter and Jake Reed and drafted Moss. The closest We ever came to a Post 70,s Super bowl. The draft shouldn't be treated as a trade deadline. Better offers will come as we get closer to the start of the season..
The only team I see giving up a first rounder is Dallas.They have a need at RB that they may well want to address in the first round. Peterson could fill that need better than any rookie,and if Jerry thinks it will bring him a Super Bowl then he'll do it.
I don't think there will be a player exchange.They get Peterson,we get 1st,4th,and a 2016 conditional 2nd.
Glad your mom is ok Austin :)
I think the Raiders are a real player. Oakland's offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave (former Vikings OC) knows how to use Adrian Peterson. Arif has suggested (and I agree) that Peterson's value could be a second and fourth round pick.
The Raiders have cap space and draft picks to make a deal happen.
Now, if the Vikings were to add some compensation in the form of a draft pick or player,... say Corradarrelle Patterson - Oakland's first round pick becomes a real possibility.
Cordarrelle caught 45 balls as a 6 game rookie starter in Musgrave's offense.
In no way, shape, or form, do I want to give up on CP84 just yet. Third year as a WR is typically when they blossom. If he is still a gadget play only type of guy after this next year then I would consider moving him. Harvin was viewed this way, with off-field problems to boot, and we managed a haul out of him.
This "leak" of Vikings considering a CB their biggest need? Pre draft smokescreen? Except I actually agree. Spielman looks 4years ahead. Munnerlyn contract will be long gone by then and Josh Robinson isn't a long term starter and Zimmer loves CBs.
I think the only way Vikings would intentionally leak that is if they already have offers on the table of equal or greater amount. Otherwise it would seem desperate as if talks have gone cold and they desperately need offers.
secretbonus1 with the sleuth take. Perhaps, the Cowboy's have already agreed to dealing their 1st rounder and this is Rick trying to lure Arizona's #24 and get their Peterson while we're at it?
I hope the Raiders swap #4 and their 2nd rounder for our #11 and Peterson. At #4 L. Williams/Fowler/Beasley any would be really nice additions.