The Vikings’ Best Free Agent Signings Since 2000
1. Antoine Winfield
Antoine Winfield is another member of the 50 Greatest Vikings team. He also happens to be the best tackling cornerback I have ever seen despite standing only at 5′-9″ tall. One of my favorite Winfield plays happens to be from one of my least-favorite seasons in Vikings history. After a snowstorm in Philadelphia delayed a scheduled Sunday Night Football game between the Vikings and Eagles the game was played on the following Tuesday night. I was watching during bowling league, with the immortal Joe Webb at the helm due to injuries to Favre and Tarvaris Jackson. The Eagles were well on their way to a playoff berth while the Vikings were limping to the finish line. Michael Vick was in the midst of his best season of his career. The Eagles led 7-0 and were driving just before halftime when Winfield did this:
Just like that, the momentum shifted and the Vikings went on to win. Yes, it was ultimately a meaningless game, but don’t tell that to a guy like Winfield. That game-changing play was just one of many he made in his time with the Vikings and I think he is the best free agent signee the team has had since the year 2000.