Minnesota’s two highest-profile secondary cogs will be back for the team’s latest Aaron Rodgers matchup. After the Vikings moved Harrison Smith off the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, they activated Patrick Peterson.
Both Smith and Peterson had missed the past two games, with Peterson being down for the past three due to the current IR rule. But the All-Decade cornerback healed from his hamstring malady in short time and will return in time for his first Vikings-Packers matchup.
After multiple down years to close his Arizona tenure, Peterson has fared better in Minnesota. The eight-time Pro Bowler has allowed a 59% completion rate in coverage, way down from the 67% figure of 2020. His return stands to aid a Vikings pass defense against the reigning MVP.
The Vikings gave Peterson a one-year, $8MM deal in March, ending his 10-season stay with the Cardinals. With the Vikes releasing 2020 first-round pick Jeff Gladney, after his offseason arrest, Peterson joined Mackensie Alexander as key veteran support. After ranking 25th in pass defense last season, the Vikings sit 14th through nine games.
Hopefully a little less Breeland will be needed on the field now………..