Toby Gerhart saw his stock rise in 2013. Adrian Peterson struggled with a variety of injuries and while he was still as dominant as ever, Gerhart took the field more than expected and did well in the backup role. The running back is set to become a free agent and with many teams looking for his type of talent, it is hard to see a return to the Vikings happening in 2014.
According to the Minnesota Star Tribune, Gerhart is the running back not likely to return. While trade rumors have circulated around Peterson, everyone knows that move is not being made. Matt Asiata is also a free agent, but he will come cheap. The Vikings hold the exclusive rights to the running back with the ability to offer him a third-year veteran minimum salary. Asiata would be forced to accept the deal if offered. Minnesota will move forward with a two-back system, leaving Gerhart open to the free agent market and a nice pay raise.
The Vikings know Gerhart will be too expensive to keep around. In extremely limited time as Peterson's backup over the last four years, the former second-round draft pick put up 1,305 yards and five touchdowns. He also has 600 receiving yards and three catching touchdowns. As far as free agents go, he represents one of the best given his age and small injury history.
Several teams will target a back like Gerhart with the first being the Miami Dolphins. The team thought they had a good ground game in Daniel Thomas and Lamar Miller. However, both backs combined failed to equal the production once put up by Reggie Bush. According to the Miami Herald, the Dolphins are looking towards a free agent, but might not be willing to over spend.
The team wants a physical, downhill runner at the position. LeGarrette Blount has been tossed around as a strong option given his breakout year with the New England Patriots. However, Blount wants a big deal. He could command a top-dollar contract for a running back, something the Dolphins might not be willing to give up. Gerhart could come cheaper since his stats are smaller than Blount's. He holds the same characteristics and running style as the Patriots back.
The Cleveland Browns are another option for Gerhart. The team traded away former first-round pick Trent Richardson mid-way through the year and were left with Willis McGahee who is no longer a starting option. The Browns are in the market for a young, but proven running back and Gerhart fits the description.