NFL Free Agency: Vikings Reportedly Interested in Latavius Murray

Minnesota needs a new running back after releasing Adrian Peterson into NFL free agency Tuesday evening

One future Hall of Famer is out the door in Minnesota, and the Vikings are looking to replace him with a budding star.

Adrian Peterson was one of many cap casualties felt across the NFL on Tuesday that included Darrelle Revis, Jairus Byrd, and Jamaal Charles. Without a first-round draft pick thanks to the Sam Bradford trade the Vikings must be extremely diligent in the NFL Draft and entering the NFL free agency period.

While this year’s draft class is stocked at the running back position reports are that Minnesota has their eyes set on a former Raider.

Latavius Murray is expected to hit free agency this offseason, and Draft Analyst’s Tony Pauline reports the Vikings have already discussed and heavily considered signing Murray in free agency.

"Even before the Minnesota Vikings officially cut ties with running back Adrian Peterson several sources told me the team was showing a good deal of interest in Latavius Murray of the Oakland Raiders."

Murray has rushed for over 1,800 yards in the past two seasons combined and could be the long-term replacement to Peterson.

Pauline also reports that Oakland has already decided to allow Murray test the free agent waters and not overpay with contracts for Khalil Mack and Derek Carr looming in the near future.

Murray would certainly be an upgrade over the returning Jerrick McKinnon or the pending free agent Matt Asiata.

Next: 2017 NFL Mock Draft: Raiders Make a Major Move

Minnesota is projected to have over $40 million in salary cap available when the offseason officially begins on March 9.