Packers experience played role in Bashaud Breeland signing with Vikings

After playing in the NFC North with the Green Bay Packers, Bashaud Breeland is headed back to the division.

One of the last stable starting cornerbacks on the market, Bashaud Breeland, had his pick of the litter where he would go next. According to Pro Football Focus, he was coming off his best season with the Kansas City Chiefs, recording a career-best 72.9 in coverage.

After a visit to the land of 10,000 Lakes, it was clear Breeland had found his next home. On Friday, the Minnesota Vikings made it official, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal worth up to $4 million.

Breeland now joins forces with All-Pro cornerback Patrick Peterson, who agreed to a one-year deal earlier this offseason. He’ll also partner with nickel cornerback Mackensie Alexander and third-round breakout defender Cameron Dantzler to hopefully fix a putrid secondary from 2020.

Although playing under defensive guru Mike Zimmer did factor into the decision, Breeland told NFL reporter Josina Anderson that his past time with the Green Bay Packers also played a pivotal role in his choice to return to the NFC North.

Breeland spent the 2018 season in Green Bay following four seasons with the now-Washington Football Team.

Can Breeland be a factor in Minnesota’s success defensively?

Breeland comes to Minnesota with high hopes that he can factor into the defense as a starter. He started 32 games with Kansas City over the past two seasons, recording five interceptions,  including one in Super Bowl LIV over the San Francisco 49ers on the way to victory.

As a member of the Packers, results were mixed when on the field. Per PFF’s grading, Breeland recorded a career-best 67.6 against the run and 57.2 in coverage. Quarterbacks targeted him 32 times in which he allowed 19 catches, but he also recorded two interceptions in the process.

The addition of Breeland now solidifies an overall improved secondary for the Vikings as they look to remain in the hunt for the NFC North. Despite the departure of Anthony Harris, Minnesota also added veteran Cowboys safety Xavier Woods to compliment Harrison Smith.

Breeland wasn’t retained by Green Bay following the 2018 season. Now, inside U.S. Bank Stadium, perhaps he gains his revenge against the Packers and maybe Aaron Rodgers on the way to giving Minnesota the division title for the first time since 2017.