There’s no denying that Aaron Jones has been incredible for the Minnesota Vikings this season. It’s also somewhat foolish to believe he can remain healthy at his current usage rate. Nearly 32 years old and with a track record of injuries to his name, there’s just no reason to run him into the ground.
Minnesota has roughly a month remaining until the trade deadline. That shouldn’t stop general manager Nolan Teasley from seeing if he can add talent during the bye week. Giving that player time to acclimate within the scheme of their new 5-0 squad may prove valuable.
Jones will continue to get his, but with 97 carries through five games he is on pace to tote the rock 329 times. That would be nearly 100 more carries than Jones had (255) during his first season with the Vikings (2024). Jordan Mason is coming back, and both DeeJay Dallas and Demond Claiborne have factored in, but options are out there. Here’s a look at 3 possible additions:
Kimani Vidal – Los Angeles Chargers
Just 25 years old, and with starting experience, Vidal is buried on the Los Angeles Chargers depth chart. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has only given him 14 carries through their first five games (all losses). Vidal started 10 games last year and had three touchdowns with 643 yards on the ground. He can catch the ball out of the backfield as well, and knows how to factor into blocking schemes.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt – Washington Commanders
Like Vidal, JCM is just 25 years old. He has operated in a starting role for the Commanders this season, but they are going nowhere fast. Across 67 attempts, he has 239 yards on the ground and two scores. He isn’t much of a receiver, but could be a nice complement to the three-headed monster that Jones and Mason are looking for depth behind.
Saquon Barkley – Philadelphia Eagles
Obviously the biggest name of this trio, Barkley is also the oldest at 29. He’d command something like a third round pick, and currently isn’t healthy. That said, the Eagles are falling apart and when he does come back, there may not be anything for him to play for. Barkley has won a Super Bowl and is just two years removed from a 2,000 yard season. He’s an incredible athlete, and may be best suited for a rotational role at this stage of his career. If the Eagles are willing to listen, and the Vikings think he could be the added piece that brings home a Super Bowl, then nothing should stop them from getting it done.
Which of these options do you think would be the best addition to the Vikings roster? Let use know what you think in the comments, Vikings fans!
0 Comments