Daily Norseman - Minnesota Vikings Free Agency 2015The Purple and Gold Standardhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48653/dailynorseman_fave.png2015-03-29T11:40:45-05:00http://www.dailynorseman.com/rss/stream/79299082015-03-29T11:40:45-05:002015-03-29T11:40:45-05:00Who's Left in Free Agency for the Vikings?
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Jm5QCbmEWC0Q60-rvhj_LkQ5J8I=/0x374:1886x1631/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46001362/usa-today-8297844.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The big free agent rush has pretty much died down to this point, and everyone attention is officially shifting to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">2015 NFL Draft</a>, which will kick off in Chicago exactly one month from tomorrow. Yes, we still have a whole month of mock drafts to look forward to, but it will be over quickly enough.</p>
<p>I'm not sure how active the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> are going to be in free agency following the veritable flurry of three signings over the course of a couple of days this past week. However, there are still some players out there that could help the Vikings. As of now, according to the folks from <a target="_blank" href="http://overthecap.com/salary-cap-space">Over the Cap</a>, the Vikings are sitting on nearly $16 million in salary cap space with 70 players under contract. Here are four guys that the Vikings could call upon that would help them out.</p>
<p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><span>Stefen Wisniewski</span>, G/C, formerly of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders">Oakland Raiders</a></i> - As it stands now, the Vikings' biggest weakness after three weeks of free agency is the same as it was before free agency started, and that's the left guard position. That's where Wisniewski played in his rookie season for the Raiders, though he has spent the last three years as their starting center. He's been a very good run-blocking center over the course of his career, and though he had his issues in pass protection this past season, he hasn't been bad there for most of his career, either. Wisniewski would be a nice upgrade at the left guard spot in the short-term and, depending on how the Vikings feel about <span>John Sullivan</span>. . .who isn't getting any younger. . .going forward, he could potentially slide into that spot as well.</p>
<p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><span>Brandon Spikes</span>, LB, formerly of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a></i> - The Vikings have decided to bring back <span>Chad Greenway</span>, but that certainly doesn't mean that the linebacker position still doesn't need shoring up. . .far from it, in fact. Spikes is a player that the Vikings have, reportedly, had some "lukewarm" interest in, and he's sort of the same linebacker as Jasper Brinkley. There are few better at stopping the run from the linebacker position than Spikes, but you don't want him anywhere near the field in passing situations. That limits his value a bit, but if the Vikings feel that they could use a two-down linebacker, Spikes would be a pretty good one.</p>
<p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><span>Rolando McClain</span>, LB, formerly of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a></i> - In a perfect world, Rolando McClain would be able to step in and be a force at middle linebacker for just about any team in the league. In the real world, he has lots and lots. . .and lots. . .of issues. Seriously, the guy has more red flags than NASCAR headquarters. At age 25, he's already retired from the NFL. . .twice. . .and is currently looking at a <a href="http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/dallas-cowboys/headlines/20150221-report-cowboys-free-agent-rolando-mcclain-facing-suspension-for-violating-substance-abuse-policy.ece" target="_blank">four-game suspension</a> to start this season because of issues with the league's substance abuse policy. He had a great season for Dallas in 2014, but he doesn't seem like the sort of guy that Rick Spielman would get within a country mile of.</p>
<p><i style="font-weight: bold;"><span>Da'Quan Bowers</span>, DE, formerly of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a></i> - It's easy to forget that Bowers, at one point, was a candidate to be selected #1 overall in the 2011 NFL Draft. He wound up falling into the second round, and was largely disappointing during his four years in Tampa. The Vikings have flirted with some defensive ends this off-season (most notably <span>Michael Johnson</span> and <span>George Selvie</span>), so they're obviously looking for something at the position. Obviously, they wouldn't be bringing Bowers in with an eye towards having him start, but he's someone that could be looking for a shot at redemption. And, as I'm sure you've heard me say numerous times before, if anybody can get the most out of a guy like Bowers, it's Mike Zimmer.</p>
<p>Do you have anyone that's still floating around in free agency that you'd like to see the Vikings take a shot at?</p>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/29/8308099/whos-left-in-free-agency-that-could-help-the-minnesota-vikingsChristopher Gates2015-03-25T11:15:17-05:002015-03-25T11:15:17-05:00Vikings Sign Cornerback Terence Newman
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wcyKBy0-yKFxYo8dq1DCa8N_9cI=/0x92:3082x2147/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45977390/usa-today-8256251.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Hello, Newman!</p>
<p>Yes, on Wednesday the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> finally closed the deal with cornerback <span>Terence Newman</span>, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal. That makes two of Mike Zimmer's former players in Cincinnati that have signed with the team in the past 24 hours, as safety/linebacker <span>Taylor Mays</span> signed with the team late on Tuesday.</p>
<p>Newman will be the oldest player on the Minnesota roster, as he will turn 37 this September. He spent his first nine years in the NFL with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> before moving on to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> for three seasons. He was the fifth overall selection in the 2003(!?) <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>.</p>
<p>Newman visited the Vikings last week, and thought that things went pretty well.</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Terence Newman last week to me on Zimmer: "I've (played) some of my best football with Zimmer as my coach, so I would know what to expect."</p>
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) <a href="https://twitter.com/christomasson/status/580761423376060416">March 25, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
I'm not sure if Newman is going to have much of an opportunity to start across from <span>Xavier Rhodes</span>, but could prove to be a pretty decent options in sub packages in a suddenly crowded Minnesota secondary. Certainly his age is a bit of a concern, but his experience could be just as valuable as his play on the field for the Vikings' defense.</p>
<p>You can find him on Twitter at. . .get this. . .<a href="https://twitter.com/terencenewman" target="_blank">@terencenewman</a>. No points for creativity, that's for sure.</p>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/25/8288975/minnesota-vikings-sign-cornerback-terence-newmanChristopher Gates2015-03-25T01:08:00-05:002015-03-25T01:08:00-05:00Minnesota Vikings Free Agency Tracker
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Fm1k5agOHRJ3ZOmMpOcUGxqZ8o0=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45839422/usa-today-8129749.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/13/8211495/minnesota-vikings-christian-ponder-oakland-raiders-sign-free-agency" target="new"></a>Everything you want to know about what's going on in free agency with the Minnesota Vikings can be found right here.</p> <p>We're getting close to the start of free agency in the National Football League, and with that will come a ton of rumors and speculation, as well as. . .you know. . .actual player movement and signings and stuff.</p>
<p>In order to keep things easy to find, we're setting up this post that will be updated regularly (as well as part of our larger free agency stream) that will track what we've been hearing and what's actually been happening. Hopefully you will find it a helpful resource with what's happening with our favorite football team.</p>
<p>So, here's what we've got for you.</p>
<h5>
<a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vikings</a>' Pending In-House Free Agents</h5>
<table border="1" align="center">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Player</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Position</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>FA Type</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>New Team</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Story</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Matt Asiata</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">RB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Restricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Minnesota</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/9/8180379/nfl-free-agency-re-sign-matt-asiata">THREE YARDS AND A CLICK</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Joe Berger</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Minnesota</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/10/8185135/joe-berger-re-signs-with-vikings" target="_blank">BACK FOR TWO MORE YEARS</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Jasper Brinkley</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">LB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Dallas</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/13/8206725/minnesota-vikings-jasper-brinkley-dallas-cowboys-nfl-free-agency" target="_blank">CLICK. YOU KNOW YOU WANT IT.</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Dom DeCicco</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">LB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Exclusive Rights</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/10/8183883/minnesota-vikings-mike-harris-nfl-free-agency-2015">NOT GONNA TENDER</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Vladimir Ducasse</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Chicago</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.1500espn.com/sportswire/Report_Chicago_Bears_sign_former_Vikings_guard_Vlad_Ducasse031615" target="_blank">DU. . .DUCASSE. . .DUCASSE MISSED</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Jerome Felton</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">FB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Buffalo</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/10/8185629/bills-sign-jerome-felton">BUFFALO IS NOW MINNESOTA EAST</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Mike Harris</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">OT</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Restricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Minnesota</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/17/8235113/minnesota-vikings-re-sign-tackle-mike-harris">MIKE MIKE MIKE MIKE MIKE MIKE!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Greg Jennings</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">WR</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Released/Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Charlie Johnson</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Released/Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Tom Johnson</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">DT</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Minnesota</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/8/8172355/vikings-free-agency-vikings-re-sign-dt-tom-johnson">RIGHT HERE CLICK NOW</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Josh Kaddu</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">LB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Cullen Loeffler</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">LS</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Minnesota</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/8/8173253/vikings-re-sign-colin-loeffler">BANG IT HERE FOR DETAILS YO</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Christian Ponder</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">QB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Oakland</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/13/8211495/minnesota-vikings-christian-ponder-oakland-raiders-sign-free-agency" target="_blank">MUSGRAVE REUNION!!!11!!1!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Josh Samuda</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Exclusive Rights</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Corey Wootton</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">DE</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Unrestricted</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>To my knowledge, the Vikings have not extended qualifying offers to either of their restricted free agents (Asiata or Harris). If they have, I certainly haven't seen anything about it. DeCicco and Samuda are exclusive rights free agents, <a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="http://football.calsci.com/FreeAgency.html" target="_blank">which means this</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>An Exclusive-Rights Free Agent is an NFL player who is not under contract, but has only two years of NFL experience. If his former club makes him an offer at the three year veteran minimum salary, then that's it, he has to take it or leave the NFL. These guys have no right to negotiate with other teams. They are "free" only in the sense that they're free to quit.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>If one of the above players re-signs with the Vikings, it will be included in the table above.</p>
<h5>Free Agents Signed By The Minnesota Vikings</h5>
<table align="center" border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Player</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Position</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Former Team</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Source</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Story</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Shaun Hill</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">QB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://twitter.com/RossJonesFOX/status/575389071733714944" target="_blank">Ross Jones</a></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/10/8185291/minnesota-vikings-free-agency-sign-qb-shaun-hill" target="_blank">Right here</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>DuJuan Harris</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">RB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://twitter.com/RavensInsider/status/578652204892098562" target="_blank">Aaron Wilson</a></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/19/8259915/minnesota-vikings-sign-running-back-dujuan-harris" target="_blank">DuJuanna Bet He Doesn't Make The Roster?</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Taylor Mays</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">S</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Team</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/25/8287281/minnesota-vikings-sign-safety-taylor-mays">Right here</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Casey Matthews</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">LB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Team</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/25/8287297/minnesota-vikings-sign-linebacker-casey-matthews">Right here</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><span>Terence Newman</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">CB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Bengals</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/25/8288975/minnesota-vikings-sign-cornerback-terence-newman" target="_blank">Right here</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Obviously, we won't be seeing any names here until after 3 PM Central time on 10 March, when players can officially sign with other teams.</p>
<p><b>Free Agent Rumors</b></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/12/8199601/michael-johnson-minnesota-vikings-free-agency-visit">Report: Michael Johnson Visiting Vikings</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/7/8167873/report-minnesota-vikings-shaun-hill-free-agency">Vikings Reach Out To Quarterback Shaun Hill</a> (via Chris Tomasson of the <a target="_blank" href="http://blogs.twincities.com/vikings/2015/03/07/quarterback-shaun-hill-emerges-target-vikings-free-agency/">St. Paul Pioneer Press</a>)</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/7/8168141/report-minnesota-vikings-reach-out-to-adrian-clayborn">Vikings Reach Out To Defensive End Adrian Clayborn</a> (via <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/GoesslingESPN/status/574313874490400768">Ben Goessling</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/mattvensel/status/574308989640445952">Matt Vensel</a> on Twitter)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/7/8168271/report-minnesota-vikings-george-selvie-free-agency" target="_blank">Vikings Reach Out To Defensive End George Selvie</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/GoesslingESPN/status/574324337420943361" target="_blank">Ben Goessling</a> on Twitter)</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/8/8169779/report-minnesota-vikings-reach-out-to-a-j-hawk">Vikings Reach Out To "Linebacker" A.J. Hawk</a> (via <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/GoesslingESPN/status/574360100355239936">Ben Goessling</a> on Twitter)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/8/8170231/report-minnesota-vikings-to-pursue-rahim-moore-in-free-agency" target="_blank">Vikings To Pursue Safety Rahim Moore in Free Agency</a> (via <a href="http://vikingsterritory.com/2015/general-news/report-minnesota-vikings-will-pursue-s-rahim-moore-in-free-agency" target="_blank">Arif Hasan</a> at Vikings Territory)</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/8/8170271/report-minnesota-vikings-brian-hoyer-free-agency">Vikings Reach Out To Quarterback Brian Hoyer</a> (via <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/JosinaAnderson/status/574589053187678209">Josina Anderson</a> on Twitter)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/8/8170591/report-minnesota-vikings-taylor-mays-free-agency" target="_blank">Vikings Reach Out To Safety/Special Teamer Taylor Mays</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/mattvensel/status/574611523730956289" target="_blank">Matt Vensel</a> on Twitter)</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/8/8170673/report-minnesota-vikings-reach-out-to-mike-iupati">Vikings Reach Out To Guard Mike Iupati</a> (via Chris Tomasson of the <a target="_blank" href="http://blogs.twincities.com/vikings/2015/03/08/vikings-reach-representative-star-49ers-guard-mike-iupati/">St. Paul Pioneer Press</a>)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/9/8176417/report-minnesota-vikings-making-a-push-for-clint-boling" target="_blank">Vikings Making A Push For Guard Clint Boling</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/christomasson/status/574985025386643456" target="_blank">Chris Tomasson</a> on Twitter)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/11/8195979/report-minnesota-vikings-michael-johnson-free-agency" target="_blank">Vikings Interested In Defensive End Michael Johnson</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/JennaLaineBucs/status/575782677778837504" target="_blank">Jenna Laine</a> on Twitter)</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/17/8235149/cornerback-terence-newman-visits-minnesota-vikings">Cornerback Terence Newman Visits Vikings</a></p>
<p>Keep an eye out for more rumors to make their way into this space.</p>
<h5>Other Stuff That Impacts The Vikings In Free Agency (Trades, Restructures, etc.)</h5>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/13/8212435/minnesota-vikings-acquire-mike-wallace-from-miami-dolphins">Vikings Acquire Wide Receiver Mike Wallace From Miami</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/14/8215623/minnesota-vikings-release-greg-jennings" target="_blank">Vikings Release Wide Receiver Greg Jennings</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/15/8218311/michael-johnson-chooses-cincinnati-over-minnesota">Defensive End Michael Johnson Chooses Cincinnati Over Minnesota</a></p>
<p>Just what the headline says it is, folks. If there's any news out of Winter Park, we'll have it right here.</p>
<p>So, keep an eye on this post, ladies and gentlemen, because we'll have everything you're looking for right here.</p>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/7/8167919/minnesota-vikings-free-agency-trackerChristopher GatesEric ThompsonTed Glover2015-03-25T01:00:23-05:002015-03-25T01:00:23-05:00Minnesota Vikings Sign Linebacker Casey Matthews
<figure>
<img alt="He's Clay Matthews' brother, but obviously has much better hair." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WRutjizJuyDfLJznGuZn47GPHbY=/0x81:4662x3189/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45975260/usa-today-8171277.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>He's Clay Matthews' brother, but obviously has much better hair. | Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Well, here's one that I don't think anybody saw coming, largely because I don't think anyone ever connected him with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a>.</p>
<p>On Tuesday, along with the signing of safety <span>Taylor Mays</span>, the Minnesota Vikings inked former <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a>' linebacker <span>Casey Matthews</span> to a contract. Terms of the deal were not immediately made available.</p>
<p>Matthews was the Eagles' fourth-round pick (#116 overall) in the 2011 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> out of the University of Oregon. And, yes, he's the younger brother of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a>' linebacker Clay Matthews. He actually opened the 2011 season as the Eagles' starter at middle linebacker, but was moved to weak-side linebacker after the first couple of games. After making five starts in his first three seasons, he started 11 games for the Eagles this past season, collecting 53 combined tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble.</p>
<p>I'm not sure exactly what the plan for Matthews is for the Vikings, whether he's going to have a shot to compete for a starting spot or he's just being brought in for depth/special teams purposes. But, for a young and maturing team like the Vikings, competition is always healthy.</p>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/25/8287297/minnesota-vikings-sign-linebacker-casey-matthewsChristopher Gates2015-03-25T00:53:35-05:002015-03-25T00:53:35-05:00Minnesota Vikings Sign Safety Taylor Mays
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sC_6hHWOXmo5Wc2K2U8D23IF1cE=/2x0:3847x2563/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45975232/usa-today-8051985.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Well, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> made a couple of moves on Tuesday. We'll look at them one at a time, starting with one that had been rumored for a while.</p>
<p>The Vikings came to terms with former <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Cincinnati Bengals</a>' safety <span>Taylor Mays</span> on Tuesday. They had been rumored to be one of the three teams that was in the running for his services, along with the Bengals and the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a>.</p>
<p>Mays was a second-round pick of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> in 2010 out of Southern Cal. He was eventually traded to the Bengals, where he spent four seasons. The 6'3", 225-pound Mays didn't play a lot of snaps on defense for the Bengals in recent years, logging only 61 snaps this past season, but has shown himself to be very good on special teams. The Vikings could look to use him as something of a hybrid safety/linebacker in Mike Zimmer's defense.</p>
<p>Sure, it's not a splashy signing or anything, but it's one that could help the Vikings on both defense and special teams. If Mike Zimmer wants Mays to make an impact on defense, I have no doubt that he can find ways to make that happen.</p>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/25/8287281/minnesota-vikings-sign-safety-taylor-maysChristopher Gates2015-03-19T15:35:22-05:002015-03-19T15:35:22-05:00Minnesota Vikings Sign Running Back DuJuan Harris
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GnE0ukYH4v5cZ0eKoLKImVGv0jY=/0x114:1532x1135/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45943428/usa-today-6409468.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Well, if the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Minnesota Vikings</a> have done nothing else in free agency, at least they made a move to shore up their <strike>#4</strike> #5 running back spot.</p>
<p><strike>#5</strike> #6 if <span>Adrian Peterson</span> comes back.</p>
<p>The Vikings announced on Thursday that they had reached a 1-year, $660,000 agreement with running back <span>DuJuan Harris</span>, formerly of the. . .<i>sigh</i>. . .<a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Green Bay Packers</a>. Harris was originally signed by the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> after going undrafted in 2011, where he saw action in five games. He was released during training camp in 2012, and spent four days with the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>. He was then signed by the Packers in October of 2012.</p>
<p>Harris was an exclusive rights free agent that was not tendered by the Packers. The $660,000 represents the salary he would have made in Green Bay had he been tendered, <a href="https://twitter.com/GoesslingESPN/status/578654572354359297" target="_blank">according to Ben Goessling</a> of ESPN.com.</p>
<p>Over the course of his four-year National Football League career, he's carried the ball 59 times for 263 yards. . .or approximately half of what <span>Jerick McKinnon</span> and <span>Matt Asiata</span> rushed for last year.</p>
<p>Each.</p>
<p>Hopefully, for their next trick, the Vikings can sign someone that will be something more than a camp body. Keep your fingers crossed.</p>
<p><i style="font-weight: bold;">EDIT</i>: I forgot about running back <span>Henry Josey</span> when I was doing the Vikings' RB depth chart in my head. The first couple of sentences have been changed to accurately reflect Harris' position on that depth chart.</p>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/19/8259915/minnesota-vikings-sign-running-back-dujuan-harrisChristopher Gates2015-03-17T12:59:52-05:002015-03-17T12:59:52-05:00Cornerback Terence Newman Visits Minnesota Vikings
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/p-kwXZW_k6fwga-M4sd4SIXh1_s=/0x207:1380x1127/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45919402/usa-today-8240658.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>If Mike Zimmer continues bringing in enough of his former players, maybe one of them will end up signing with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a>. Maybe.</p>
<p>Zimmer and company took another shot at a former member of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Cincinnati Bengals</a>, as they had a visit with cornerback <span>Terence Newman</span> on Monday.</p>
<p>Newman doesn't fit the profile of the sort of guy that the Vikings might bring in as a free agent because. . .well, he's kind of old. He was the fifth overall pick of the <i>2003</i> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. . .the same year as <span>Kevin Williams</span>. . .by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> out of Kansas State. He spent the first nine years of his career with the Cowboys before moving on to Cincinnati in 2012. In his career, he's started 172 of 174 games (including all 41 of his career games as a member of the Bengals) and has 37 career interceptions.</p>
<p>I'm not sure how serious the interest is between Newman and the Vikings. . .to my knowledge, nobody even knew that Newman was visiting until after he left. . .and he went on to visit the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">New England Patriots</a> after leaving Minnesota. Zimmer may have some interest in him to come in and mentor some players in a very young Minnesota secondary, and he could prove to be a useful stopgap for a season or two as well. If he were to sign with the Vikings, he would surpass newly-acquired backup quarterback <span>Shaun Hill</span> as the oldest player on the roster, as he turns 37 in September.</p>
<p>The Vikings have already swung and missed at guard <span>Clint Boling</span> and defensive end <span>Michael Johnson</span> on the free agent market so far. But, maybe the third time will be a charm, and the Vikings will find themselves saying. . .</p>
<center><iframe frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/98dai6CC5BA" height="315" width="420"></iframe></center>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/17/8235149/cornerback-terence-newman-visits-minnesota-vikingsChristopher Gates2015-03-17T12:46:41-05:002015-03-17T12:46:41-05:00Minnesota Vikings Re-Sign Mike Harris
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pX5yW6sinmLvdFfrr7qNJOkt-YU=/0x0:3495x2330/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45919332/usa-today-8236516.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>On Tuesday, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> kept on doing what they've done for most of the free agency period so far. . .holding on to their own guys and not making a whole lot of a splash.</p>
<p>Offensive tackle <span>Mike Harris</span> is the latest to return to the purple, as he signed a one-year contract on Tuesday morning.</p>
<p>Harris was signed by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">San Diego Chargers</a> as an undrafted free agent out of UCLA after the 2012 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. After starting 12 games for the Chargers over his first two seasons, he was cut in the last cuts after Training Camp this past season, and was claimed by the Vikings off of waivers. He did an emergency stint at guard for the Vikings against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> because of injuries, and started the final five games of the season at right tackle after the team lost <span>Phil Loadholt</span> with a pectoral injury.</p>
<p>Harris joins <span>Matt Asiata</span>, <span>Joe Berger</span>, <span>Tom Johnson</span>, and <span>Cullen Loeffler</span> as players that went into the off-season as free agents and chose to return to the Vikings. He figures to be the top backup at both tackle spots going into the 2015 season, pending whatever the Vikings might do in the 2015 NFL Draft.</p>
https://www.dailynorseman.com/2015/3/17/8235113/minnesota-vikings-re-sign-tackle-mike-harrisChristopher Gates