Vikings Can Complete Their Offseason With This Sneaky Move

The Minnesota Vikings really saved their chaotic offseason in the NFL Draft, where they landed LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson and TCU cornerback Jeff Gladney -- both of whom figure to be regular starters as rookies in 2020 -- with their two first-round selections.

In terms of roster talent, we wouldn't fault analysts that believe Minnesota boasts one of the deepest. However, if we were to point out one flaw, it would be in the secondary, primarily the cornerback position.

If the Vikings really wanted to make amends for their disorderly offseason they would sign free agent CB Darqueze Dennard.

Minnesota lost corners Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes and Mackensie Alexander this offseason -- and the future of safety Anthony Harris is (still) uncertain. Therefore, former first-round pick Mike Hughes will likely slot in to the No. 1 spot. That's a tall ask for a player who's started a total of five games in his first two seasons. Then, there's Holton Hill, who's failed multiple drug tests since entering the league in 2018. Can the Vikings really expect him to remain on the field?

Finally, we get to Gladney, who might slot in as a starter opposite Hughes. While we expect big things from the former Horned Frog, nobody can guarantee the rookie corner will make a seamless transition in the NFL.

That's where Dennard, whose production last year was largely overlooked because he played for the Cincinnati Bengals, enters the fold. Injuries limited the 28-year-old to nine appearances, but Pro Football Focus rightly recognized his sound play and gave him a solid 72.2 grade.

With $11.75 million lying around in cap space, the Vikings would be able to afford Dennard, who signed a one-year $4.5 million deal with Cincy in 2019, without breaking a sweat.