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5 reasons Sam Bradford trade was brilliant for Minnesota Vikings

By John Buhler

Dec 26, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) passes against the Washington Redskins during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) passes against the Washington Redskins during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jhurell Pressley (42) celebrates his touchdown in the second quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jhurell Pressley (42) celebrates his touchdown in the second quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Picks will be worth it if the Vikings win

Yes, giving up a 2017 first-round pick and a 2018 fourth-round pick for what seems to be one year of Bradford under center may be a little steep, but if the Vikings are able to make the NFC Playoffs sans Bridgewater, then it’s all worth it.

Minnesota had a top 10 roster in the NFL entering 2016 NFL training camp. The Vikings have a top five defense and a top five running game. It wasn’t Bridgewater’s play that made them a viable Super Bowl LI contender, it was his on-field leadership.

Likely the Vikings aren’t going to ask Bradford to do more than be a game manager this season or at least until he masters Turner’s offense. The Vikings don’t need him to carry the offensive burden this fall. They already have Peterson and a terrific defense.

The Vikings are too talented in 2016 to not entertain a gamble like Bradford to see if they can’t push for a deep NFC Playoffs run. It’s a high risk, high reward move for the Vikings front office. With that 2017 first-round pick being in the teens or lower, it’s the price to pay for temporary stability at the quarterback position. Win and it’s worth it.

Next: 2. Adrian Peterson

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