9. Recognizable running backs hit free agency, interesting teams come calling
Two big names slated to become free agents next week are Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson and Jamaal Charles of the Kansas City Chiefs.
In what wasn’t a huge surprise, Minnesota decided against picking up Peterson’s option for the 2017 season. He was slated to earn $18 million which was apparently way too much given his age and recent injury history. That doesn’t mean other teams won’t make him a generous offer though. Peterson keeps in excellent shape and appears to be quite healthy after injuring his MCL last September.
He has already garnered a strong interest from the Oakland Raiders. We covered Oakland and some of the teams that might benefit from adding the soon-to-be 32-year-old future Hall of Famer.
As for Charles, the team released him following two injury-plagued seasons in 2015-16. Prior to that, Charles served as the workhorse on offense, piling up a grand total of 5,049 yards and 39 touchdowns his previous three years.
Getting completely healthy is a must for Charles if he wishes to continue his NFL career. If he can prove he has no physical limitations, he should attract attention in free agency. One club that has already spoken up is the Philadelphia Eagles.