The Vikings have re-signed defensive back and punt returner Marcus Sherels, the team announced today (Twitter link). Sherels’ agent, Chris Murray, had expressed optimism earlier this week that his client would reach an agreement with Minnesota before the free agent period got underway.
Sherels, 26, saw an increased role in the secondary in 2013, playing 545 defensive snaps. With that extra playing time, Sherels racked up 47 tackles, seven passes defended, and an interception. His most positive contributions probably came on special teams, however, where he averaged 15.2 yards per attempt on 22 punt returns, including a touchdown.
Sherels, who was set to become a restricted free agent, will be in line for a raise on 2013’s $630K minimum salary. Even if his new deal is also only worth the minimum, that amount would increase to $730K for the coming season.