The Minnesota Vikings made a big-time splash in NFL free agency with the signing of cornerback Patrick Peterson. It was a move that surprised many, but one that makes perfect sense for both parties involved.
Last season, the Vikings struggled mightily with two young cornerbacks as their starters. Mike Hughes and Jeff Gladney are good players, but they needed a true No. 1 corner. That is where Peterson will come perfectly into play.
During the 2020 season with the Arizona Cardinals, Peterson racked up 61 total tackles to go along with three interceptions and eight defended passes. He can still be a lockdown cornerback for the Vikings. Those numbers show why Minnesota made signing him a priority.
At 30 years old, this is the kind of fresh start that Peterson was interested in finding. The Vikings are not terribly far away from being a serious contender in the NFC.
All of that being said, let’s take a look at three super early predictions for Patrick Peterson with the Vikings in 2021.
3. Peterson Immediately Takes Over As The No. 1 Corner
While the signing of Peterson has excited most Vikings fans, there are some who are worried about his age. Peterson is no longer in the athletic prime of his career, but he is still more than capable of being a major difference maker.
Right off the bat, Peterson will take hold of the No. 1 cornerback role for the Vikings. He will be the main leader of the Minnesota defense. That is what he was signed to do and he will not disappoint.
2. He Records At Least Four Interceptions
A major need for the Vikings was finding a way to create more turnovers defensively. They have a decent all-around defense, but they want more playmaking. Even though they ranked No. 12 in the NFL with 22 total takeaways in 2020, they want to become even more disruptive.
Patrick Peterson will come in and help in that category immediately. He will record at least four interceptions in his first season with the Vikings.
Having a playmaker like Peterson in the secondary makes every defense better. This is going to be one of the most productive signings out of his free agent class.
1. A Pro Bowl Appearance Is In The Cards
Finally, the Vikings are going to see their new top cornerback play like one of the best in the NFL. Peterson will not only have a good season, but he will end up making the Pro Bowl due to his stellar performance.
Peterson has been a star throughout his entire NFL career. Leaving the Cardinals was a tough decision, but one that will pay off. His first season with the Vikings will be another impressive chapter of his legacy.
