Vikings Sign CFL Linebacker Brian Peters

Earlier this morning the Vikings announced the signing of Canadian Football League linebacker Brian Peters.  Brian Peters played his college ball at Northwestern, and was a starting safety, finishing his career with 12 interceptions, 6 forced fumbles and 300 tackles.  His junior year in 2010, he lead the team in tackles with 107.

During the lead-up to the 2012 draft, a lot was made about his big size for a safety, as he clocked in at 6'3" and 215 pounds.  His strength, aggressive style and tackling ability drew comparisons to Seattle's Kam Chancellor.  He impressed at his Pro Day, but ultimately went un-drafted as scouts viewed him as "lacking burst to sustain, and struggles covering sideline-to-sideline."  With a 4.60 40-yard dash, he was likely a little too slow for NFL game speed.

He spent the 2013 and 2014 seasons in the CFL, having converted to linebacker.  He added a little bit of weight since the 2012 draft, and was listed at 6'3" and 218 pounds on his CFL bio page.  He will likely need to add more bulk to compete at the linebacker spot for the Vikings, although it's certainly possible that the Vikings could look at him at the safety spot as well.  For the Saskatchewan Roughriders he displayed the same level of playmaking ability he had at Northwestern.  As a starter in 2014, he racked up 78 tackles, 3 sacks, one forced fumble and two interceptions, one returned for a touchdown.

Whether he is competing at linebacker or safety, Brian Peters will have his work cut out for him come training camp time.  But the Vikings appear to be exploring any and all avenues to acquire talent.  Good luck and welcome to the Vikings Brian Peters!