The passing defense for the Minnesota Vikings struggled mightily in 2022. They were 31st in the league in passing yards allowed and 30th in net yards per attempt as teams moved the ball with ease through the air against them.

To make matters worse, their best cornerback from last season, veteran Patrick Peterson, departed in free agency. He had one of the best seasons of his career and will be tough to replace. The team also lost some depth when Chandon Sullivan followed Peterson to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

No veterans have been brought in to help replace those losses, which is partly why Maurice Moton of Bleacher Report listed the Vikings as a potential suitor for Eli Apple in free agency. It is hard to argue against the suggestion as Apple would be a good fit in Minnesota.

After a disastrous start to his career with the New York Giants, where they reached for him at No. 10 in the 2016 NFL Draft, Apple settled in the last few seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. He was more than passable as a starting cornerback for an AFC contender with two interceptions and 18 passes defended.

But, if there is one clear weakness in his game, it is sticking with players downfield. Apple surrendered 14.6 yards per reception last season as he is susceptible to getting beat deep on the boundary. Having a safety capable of covering for him, as the Bengals did with Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell, is ideal.

The Vikings have that in Harrison Smith, making him a great fit in Minnesota. While the Indianapolis Colts lack that kind of safety, Apple would be a great fit for them as well. They are lacking veteran cornerbacks after trading Stephon Gilmore to the Dallas Cowboys and releasing Isaiah Rodgers after he received at least a year’s suspension for gambling on the NFL.

The Ohio State product would be a nice addition to a Colts secondary that needs some leadership heading into training camp. A seven-year veteran just now entering his prime, Apple would be a nice pickup for Indianapolis.