May 5 is going to be an important <a href="http://www.authenticsaintsshop.com/shop-by-players-jahri-evans-jersey-c-1_17.html">Jahri Evans Womens Jersey</a> day at Winter Park. That is the day the Vikings have to decide if they want to pick up the fifth-year options on two former first-round picks: linebacker Anthony Barr and quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.

At this time last year, it would have been a no-brainer that the Vikings were going to exercise those options. Now, that might not be true. The Vikings’ decisions will alter the direction of the franchise.

Barr has been selected to two Pro Bowls, but <a href="http://www.authentic49ersshop.com/shop-by-players-eric-reid-jersey-c-1_20.html">Eric Reid Youth Jersey</a> last season Mike Zimmer openly admitted that he wanted more from Barr in terms of on-the-field play. Barr didn’t always bring it, even though he did make some plays that make your eyes pop.

In reality, the Vikings are most likely going to exercise the deal for Barr, but he has a lot to prove. If Barr can get back to his old self, there is no reason the Vikings can’t have the top defense in the league. It would be hard for me to imagine the Vikings not wanting Barr around, but the consistency doesn’t come back after this season, Barr may hit the free-agent market.

Bridgewater’s situation is tough. He was drafted <a href="http://www.authenticbillsstore.com/shop-by-players-cyrus-kouandjio-jersey-c-1_16.html">http://www.authenticbillsstore.com/shop-by-players-cyrus-kouandjio-jersey-c-1_16.html</a> with the 32nd overall pick to be the Vikings’ franchise quarterback. All signs pointed to him taking a big leap forward this season, but he never got the opportunity due to a terrible injury.

Now, the Vikings have to make the decision if they want to pay him a lot of money without knowing if he is going to get completely healthy.

Zimmer has said he doesn’t want Bridgewater going anywhere, and with how the quarterback has helped form this team and organization, it is hard to believe that the Vikings won’t keep him around.

According to CBS Sports, Barr’s option being <a href="http://www.authenticcowboyssale.com/shop-by-players-tony-romo-jersey-c-2_3.html">http://www.authenticcowboyssale.com/shop-by-players-tony-romo-jersey-c-2_3.html</a> picked up is a slam dunk, but they are not so sure about Bridgewater, again because of injury. Although it is worth noting that fifth year is guaranteed for injury.