The Minnesota Vikings are in need of reinforcement in their running game following a lackluster season from Alexander Mattison. One potential high-impact signing being floated is acquiring Pro Bowl running back Saquon Barkley, as suggested by Alec Lewis of The Athletic.
In his February 6 article, Lewis outlined eight top-tier free agents who could significantly improve the Vikings if they decide to make big moves during the offseason, highlighting Barkley as a prime candidate to enhance their running game.
Lewis noted that while it would go against the current trend in the league, investing in an established and dynamic running back like Barkley, despite his age nearing 27, could be a bold and intriguing move for the Vikings. Despite Barkley ranking 24th in average yards after contact per rush among qualified running backs last season, Lewis believes his addition to the Vikings’ offensive arsenal could be transformative, drawing a parallel to the impact Christian McCaffrey had when the 49ers acquired him. However, Lewis acknowledges that such a move would require boldness from a team that can’t afford to miss.
Barkley is on the verge of free agency following reports that the New York Giants are not planning to franchise tag him. Pro Football Focus (PFF) projects Barkley to command a two-year contract worth $22 million, with an average annual value of $11 million.
The Solve Saquon Barkley Could Bring Vikings
Last season, the Vikings struggled in the red zone, ranking among the bottom five teams with a touchdown conversion rate of only 47.1%. A significant factor contributing to this was their ineffective running game.
The team managed just seven rushing touchdowns, placing them 30th in the NFL. Even though Alexander Mattison led the team in rushing yards with 700 yards on 180 carries, he failed to score a rushing touchdown. This lack of success on the ground limited the Vikings’ options in the red zone, making them predictable and easier to defend.
Saquon Barkley’s unique blend of size and speed could provide a solution in the red zone. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 230 pounds, Barkley combines power with agility, making him a threat between the tackles and elusive in open space.
Beyond his scoring ability, Barkley’s skills extend to the passing game, where he can excel as a receiver out of the backfield. This versatility could allow the Vikings to deploy him in various roles, adding dimensions to their offense that they haven’t previously explored under Kevin O’Connell’s coaching.
O’Connell has emphasized the need to create more favorable situations on second and third downs. By incorporating Barkley into their offensive schemes, the Vikings could exploit mismatches across the field, generate more scoring opportunities on every drive, and alleviate the pressure on their defense.
Derrick Henry Another Candidate to Land With Vikings, Replace Mattison
Last offseason witnessed a significant upheaval in the running back market, with many top backs facing contract disputes with their respective teams.
Aging star running backs were pressured to accept pay cuts or were released altogether, while emerging talents such as Josh Jacobs, Tony Pollard, and Saquon Barkley failed to secure long-term extensions and instead played under franchise tags.
The upcoming offseason presents an intriguing opportunity for a reassessment of the market, potentially resulting in discounted deals at the running back position. Pro Football Focus (PFF) identified Derrick Henry as a potential fit for the Vikings, particularly if the price aligns with their budget.
Brad Spielberger of PFF noted on February 5 that the Vikings’ rushing attack was among the least efficient in the NFL last season, and with the possibility of grooming a young quarterback alongside or instead of Kirk Cousins, the team may be inclined to explore cost-effective options at running back. While historically not inclined to invest heavily in the position, Spielberger suggested that there could be an opportunity to acquire Henry at a lower cost.
Analysts’ predictions vary widely regarding Henry’s potential contract in free agency. PFF forecasted a deal averaging $10 million per season, whereas Spotrac projected a one-year contract worth $4.3 million.
Considering the Vikings already have $4 million guaranteed to Mattison next season, it’s unlikely they would commit to signing a replacement for a high salary. However, a trade involving Mattison could potentially alleviate the financial burden, freeing up significant cap space for the team.
