The Vikings made a surprising splash in free agency when the team signed CB Patrick Peterson this offseason.
Peterson seemed in decline in Arizona, but he has had a resurgent season with Minnesota so far. On Monday, Peterson’s comeback 2021 hit an obstacle. The team announced that it placed Peterson on IR.
Minnesota coach Mike Zimmer said that Peterson suffered a hamstring injury.
The Vikings corner will miss at least three games with the move. Minnesota’s cornerback unit without Peterson mainly consists of Cameron Dantzler, Bashaud Breeland, Mackensie Alexander and Kris Boyd.
Peterson has two passes defended and a PFF grade of 64.3. However, Peterson’s stats this season don’t necessarily reflect his overall impact. Opposing offenses have honed in on the other side of the field, picking apart the Vikings defense by beating the less-experienced members of the secondary.
Now, those young defensive backs will have to step up. Breeland played well last game, but he has been inconsistent in 2021. Dantzler has shown flashes of promise in 2020 and 2021.
Minnesota is 3-3 heading into its bye week. The Vikings will have to find creative ways to stop Dak Prescott and the Cowboys offense in Week 8 — without the help of their big-name cornerback.
The team signed Blake Brandel from the practice squad to the active roster on Monday, too.
