Should Eric Decker Come To The Minnesota Vikings?

The talk surrounding Eric Decker coming to the Minnesota Vikings has been a quiet chatter amongst Vikings fans but will undoubtedly turn into a screaming match now that Decker has been officially released from the New York Jets.

And while there are many Vikings fans that would love to have Decker back at home, I would politely say no. Now before you break out the pitchforks and torches, hear me out.

I’m not saying that Decker isn’t a good wide receiver, I would be lying to say otherwise. Before getting hurt he had 1,000 yard seasons three out of four years, and when he played for the Denver Broncos he had 87 catches for 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns. In 2015 he had 80 catches for more than 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns. Those are envious numbers for any wide receiver to have.

But I would still say no thank you.

One of the reasons, and it’s always the top reason, is money. Decker’s contract has two years and $14.75 million dollars. He’s due $7 million this season and an additional $3 million for being released. And looking at what the Vikings still need paying that much for a wide receiver is hard pill to swallow, for me anyways.

Decker is also just coming off hip and shoulder surgery. He says he’s healthy but that is a high-risk gamble that I don’t know if Minnesota should take.

The other reason is we already have solid wide receivers. In 2015 Stefon Diggs came in week four and ended that season with 720 yards and four touchdowns, in 2016 he had 903 yards and three touchdowns. And Minnesota native Adam Thielen had 967 yards and five touchdowns last season. I know those aren’t anywhere near Decker’s numbers, but they’re good. When given the opportunity, Diggs and Thielen stepped up and proved they could be those clutch players. Not to mention the Vikings picked up Michael Floyd and let’s not forget about Laquon Treadwell. Please hold on your Treadwell comments for now.

Long story short, there is greater need than another wide receiver right now. Decker is not going to take a pay cut and the Vikings could use that money elsewhere. I know bringing the Cold Springs native home is appealing but let’s look at other options before we jump the gun.

Now after reading this if you’re ready to bring out the pitchforks and torches, be my guest.