MN Vikings Kickoff Tampering Period with New CB

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James Pierre
Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Less than one hour into the legal tampering window, Rob Brzezinski and the Minnesota Vikings are unofficially on the board, and their first reported signing is a new cornerback for defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who was brought back on an extension earlier this offseason.

James Pierre to sign with Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings started last season with just three cornerbacks, which forced them to cover for that weakness via scheme. So to start their free agency grab this offseason, that’s where they went first, agreeing to terms with former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback James Pierre on a two-year deal.

At 6’2″ and 185 pounds, Pierre has solid size for a cornerback. He will be working alongside Byron Muphy Jr. (who restructured his deal) and Isaiah Rodgers. Pierre fills the Jeff Okudah role, and should be expected to provide substantially more value.

Last season with the Steelers, Pierre was given an 86.8 overall grade by Pro Football Focus. That ranked second among 114 cornerbacks. While his 59.1 run defense grade (60th) was not strong, he topped the charts with an 89.7 coverage grade.

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Pierre has been consistent over the course of his career, playing at least 14 games every season. Last year he started a career high five games for Pittsburgh. He picked off one pass, the fourth of his career. His 11 passes defensed were a career high, and he accumulated 30 tackles.

Pierre has previous been coached by both Flores and Vikings defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander. The familiar ties on defense will help make for a smooth transition.

Initially an undrafted free agent, Pierre’s two-year deal is worth $4.25 million ($3.7 million guaranteed). That’s a nice pay bump for a Over the course of his career Pierre has made $6.78 million. Last season, he made $1.17 million. With $3.7 million guaranteed, and an average annual value of $4.25 million, it’s a nice little boost for him.

MN Vikings cornerback room takes shape

Jeff Okudah couldn’t stay healthy last season and played just six games for the Minnesota Vikings. That meant Fabian Moreau needed to be elevated from the practice squad, and relied upon as more than a rotational veteran.

Minnesota has just Dwight McGlothern and Zemaiah Vaughn on the roster to round out the room. While the five person group is better positioned with Pierre than it was last year, there’s still room for rookie additions.

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The Vikings have been tied to different first round talents in some mock drafts. It’s possible they instead look to add someone in the middle rounds after targeting Pierre in free agency.

As the roster continues to take shape, we will get a better idea as to where Rob Brzezinski wants to use immediate capital, and what could be left for the draft.

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