In his time with the Cardinals, CB Patrick Peterson became well known around the league for his ability to shut down even the best opposing wide receivers.
However, in recent years, Peterson has been more inconsistent. He tallied a 55.2 PFF grade in 2020 and a 68.6 grade the year before that. With Peterson turning 31 in July, some have speculated that a position switch could be in order.
But Peterson does not seem to feel that way. Asked about the possibility of playing safety now that he’s in the latter stages of his career, he gave a pretty straightforward response:
“I believe the plan is for me to play cornerback,” Peterson told reporters, via the Vikings’ Twitter account. “I know that I have a lot left in the tank. I feel that I still have a good position, far as being in position to make plays. …. I know I can still play at a high level, so my position will be cornerback for sure.”
I think it makes sense to leave Peterson at corner. As Vikings fans saw last season, two elite safeties can’t make the defense stellar. And Minnesota gave him a $10 million deal. Without a lot of money to spend this offseason, the Vikings needed to focus on big priorities. With S Harrison Smith still back deep on the Minnesota defense, the team doesn’t need to make safety concern No. 1.
