Vikings status at cornerback
Bringing back Byron Murphy, Jr., with a multiyear extension was a major point of emphasis for the Vikings. Murphy offers position versatility (can play outside or in the slot) and is coming off arguably the best season of his career, which ended with Defensive MVP honors at the Pro Bowl.
Murphy provides quality leadership for a room to offset 2024 veteran additions Stephon Gilmore and Shaq Griffin becoming free agents.
The Vikings also were active in bringing in veterans who have been with other teams, signing Isaiah Rodgers (fresh off him winning Super Bowl LIX with Philadelphia) and Jeff Okudah (the No. 3 overall pick of 2020 by Detroit who offers high upside but has dealt with injuries).
Minnesota also is poised to welcome the return of Mekhi Blackmon, who appeared in 15 games as a rookie in 2023 but missed all his second season after suffering a torn ACL at the first training camp practice of 2024.
Dwight McGlothern, an undrafted rookie last season, appeared in five games after earning a roster spot with a strong training camp. NaJee Thompson, an undrafted rookie in 2023, appeared primarily on special teams in 15 games that season but missed all of 2024 because of an injury.
Newly signed defensive back Tavierre Thomas has a strong track record on special teams.
Kahlef Hailassie (10 games with Browns), Reddy Steward (one game with Bears) and Ambry Thomas (42 games with 49ers) signed futures contracts in January. Thomas spent part of 2024 on Minnesota’s practice squad.
