(AP) — The Minnesota Vikings have re-signed cornerback Terence Newman, bringing the NFL’s oldest active defensive player back for a 16th season that will begin five days after he turns 40.
Newman, who has played the last three years with the Vikings, has 42 career interceptions to lead all active players in the league. With Xavier Rhodes and Trae Waynes the starters on the outside, Newman and Mackensie Alexander remain the primary options to play the slot in the nickel defense. The Vikings also drafted Mike Hughes out of Central Florida in the first round Thursday.
Newman, who has spent the past three seasons with the Vikings, has played under Zimmer for nine of his 15 previous professional seasons, including stints in Dallas (2003-06) and Cincinnati (2012-13).
The 39-year-old Newman’s 42 career interceptions currently rank second among active players, and he is 10th among active players with 221 career games.
Newman, a two-time Pro Bowler, has registered at least one interception in every season. He’s started 205 games while tallying 876 tackles (745 solo), 172 passes defensed and two sacks.
Newman, who turns 40 on Sept. 4, is set to become the oldest defensive player in the league.
