Vikings should kick the tires on former nemesis
The Minnesota Vikings have an opportunity to sign an experienced free agent who used to play for an NFC North rival. The Atlanta Falcons released CB Casey Hayward Jr. on Friday. The Falcons used Hayward’s failed physical as the reason they parted ways with the 11-year veteran. Hayward’s 2022 season with Atlanta was cut short […]
The Minnesota Vikings have an opportunity to sign an experienced free agent who used to play for an NFC North rival.
The Atlanta Falcons released CB Casey Hayward Jr. on Friday. The Falcons used Hayward’s failed physical as the reason they parted ways with the 11-year veteran.
Hayward’s 2022 season with Atlanta was cut short due to a torn pectoral, which is now creating question marks for his 2023 campaign. With that being said, he performed well in his six starts with the Falcons.
He’s bounced around the league after being drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Hayward’s best football is likely behind him, but the Vikings could benefit from adding the two-time Pro Bowler.
Outside of Byron Murphy Jr., the Vikings lack true experience at the cornerback position. Hayward could add value in a rotational role while helping younger talents such as Andrew Booth Jr. and Akayleb Evans.
It’s impossible to have too many capable cornerbacks in today’s NFL. In his prime Hayward was able to lock down some of the game’s top wide receivers. Perhaps defensive coordinator Brian Flores would be able to squeeze the last few ounces of good football out of the established veteran.
