Veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson apparently likes the idea of playing for the Kansas City Chiefs.
In a recent appearance on the NFL Network, Peterson spoke about his wishes in this latest round of free agency and the teams for whom he’d like to play at this stage of his long and decorated career. Peterson mentioned a few teams, including a return to the Minnesota Vikings, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Chiefs.
That could be good news for a Chiefs’ team likely in search of some cornerback help both via the draft and free agency this spring after losing Charvarius Ward to the San Francisco 49ers and Chris Lammons to bad choices (likely headed to prison for his involvement in an alleged battery in New Orleans this offseason). Mike Hughes is also a free agent and it’s uncertain if he will return or not.
Patrick Peterson mentioned the Chiefs as one of a few teams he’d like to consider for 2022.
The Chiefs still have a young core in L’Jarius Sneed, Rashad Fenton, and Deandre Baker, but there’s room here for some veteran experience and depth. Peterson would definitely provide that, although the idea of signing him would have sounded that much more exciting a few seasons ago.
Peterson has likely already punched his ticket to Canton for future Hall of Fame induction given his appearance on the All-Decade Team of the 2010s, his eight Pro Bowl appearances, and three First-Team All-Pro nods. His star has faded in recent seasons (he hasn’t made a Pro Bowl since 2018), but he did manage to start 13 games last season for Minnesota. In those games, he allowed only a 78.7 opposing passer rating and had 5 deflections and 1 interception that he actually ran back 66 yards for a touchdown.
Peterson’s best days are most certainly behind him, but as a veteran still searching for Super Bowl glory, he’d likely find the motivation for one more major push with a contender like the Chiefs. That said, if he’s also willing to stay in Minnesota, then maybe his dreams for a ring aren’t that compelling.