In a setback during training camp, the Minnesota Vikings suffered a blow with the news that promising second-year cornerback Mekhi Blackmon had torn his ACL during practice. The 2023 third-round pick's season was cut short before it even began, leaving the Vikings with a void to fill in their cornerback room.

With the recent passing of Khyree Jackson and the injury to Blackmon, the Vikings find themselves lacking depth at the cornerback position. Apart from starters Byron Murphy Jr. and Shaq Griffin, the team has Akayleb Evans and recent acquisition Duke Shelley as the next options on the depth chart. However, beyond these players, the depth chart consists of Andrew Booth Jr., A.J. Green III, Jaylin Williams, and rookie Dwight McGlothern, who have yet to prove themselves at the NFL level.

In light of Blackmon's season-ending injury, the addition of Duke Shelley via signing assumes even greater importance. However, it appears that the Vikings now have a pressing need to sign another starting-caliber cornerback to a one-year deal. Let's explore eight potential options for the team:

One prominent name is Howard, who played under Brian Flores in Miami. A four-time Pro Bowler, Howard was a first-team All-Pro in 2020 with an impressive ten interceptions. However, at 31 years old, he may not come cheap, and concerns were raised due to a lawsuit earlier this summer.

Another notable option is Adoree' Jackson, who played under Flores during his rookie year in New England. Despite being limited by injuries in recent seasons, Jackson has showcased his talent with 17 interceptions across the 2020 and '21 campaigns.

Another veteran cornerback, Gilmore, a five-time Pro Bowler and the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year, could be an experienced addition to the Vikings' defense. Although he turns 34 in September, Gilmore has been a consistent performer, starting every game in the last two seasons.

The possibility of a reunion with Peterson, who previously played for the Vikings in 2021 and '22, is also being considered. Now 34 years old, Peterson had a strong season in Minnesota under Ed Donatell but was less impressive during his tenure with the Steelers last year.

Nelson, a reliable starter for six consecutive seasons, is another option for the Vikings. The 31-year-old has consistently demonstrated his durability and wouldn't be a pricey addition.

With Rams cornerback Derion Kendrick suffering a torn ACL, Witherspoon, who started 17 games for Los Angeles last year, may be available and could draw interest from the Vikings.

Lastly, Jacobs, who has started 29 games for the Lions over the past three years, could provide familiarity and youth to the Vikings' defense. The 27-year-old cornerback previously visited the Vikings in May, making him a potential target.

As the Vikings aim to bolster their cornerback depth, these eight options present different possibilities for the team's consideration. With $21 million in cap space, the team has the means to secure a valuable addition to their roster. As the training camp progresses, the Vikings will likely pursue the best available option to compensate for the loss of Blackmon and fortify their defense for the upcoming season.