But for now, if you are one of the many NFL players changing teams this offseason, it’s difficult to escape conversations involving former teammates or questions about your old team. Former Vikings safety Cam Bynum found that out Thursday, when he joined NFL Network’s “Good Morning Football” as one of a few guest co-hosts for the network’s most popular show.

Cam was drafted in the 4th round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Vikings, where he played the first four seasons of his career, including 2024, with their No. 10 overall pick from last year’s draft, JJ McCarthy. It’s the only season they’ll play together, after Bynum signed a four year, $60 million contract with the Indianapolis Colts.

For the entirety of Thursday’s GMFB episode, Bynum came off as a genuine, well-spoken, smart dude who has a career waiting for him in media, should he decide to go that route once his playing career is over.

But for now, Cam is just 25 years old and not thinking about the end of his career, which look to be just getting started. On Thursday, however, before he turns his focus to his new team, Cam Bynum was mostly asked questions about his former team, the Minnesota Vikings, and his old teammates.

Cam Bynum really impressed by JJ McCarthy

At least one of the questions thrown Bynum’s way this morning was in reference to JJ McCarthy, and his thoughts on the redshirt rookie, after being a his teammate for one injury-riddled season. Instead of giving a generic answer, Bynum opened up and let the other panelists, along with those watching, in on how JJ’s teammates viewed him behind the scenes over the last year.

"He's a maniac when it comes to football overall."@Cambeezy_ on J.J. McCarthy taking over as the @Vikings QB1 pic.twitter.com/jhXZ5UUbdY

— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) March 20, 2025

“I trust him. I trust JJ [McCarthy] as a leader, first and foremost. The way that — even though when he came in, he was still a young guy, still competing with Sam — but the way that he carried himself, just as a leader. But also still following the right way and still listening and humbling himself to learn from the other guys.

But one thing that stood out to me from him — As soon as he got in, he was throwing that ball. He was a gunslinger in practice. 1st and 10, just you know ,simple concept, and he’s throwing the deep ball. He’s trying to fire downfield and that’s something I respected out of a rookie.

And then going forward, after his injury, [McCarthy’s] sitting there in the defensive team meeting room with us, trying to learn any way he can. So he’s kind of a maniac, when it comes to football, overall. The way that he carried himself while he was hurt, I can only imagine how how he’ll carry himself when he’s healthy.

When they give him the keys to the program, to be able to go and just carry himself as that leader. [When] they let him know, ‘you’re the guy, we’re rolling with you’. So I think JJ is going to grow, and that’s somebody, like I said, that I can trust.”

Cam Bynum on JJ McCarthy – GMFB (NFL Network)

If Cam Bynum never plays football in a Minnesota Vikings uniform again, I will not only be thankful for the great play he provided our Vikings, but also this parting gift he left that is sure to get the fanbase even more excited about this team’s future at QB. Now, it’s up to JJ to prove Bynum and the rest of his supporters right, but taking the starting job this offseason and never giving it back… for the next 10-20 years.

Minnesota Vikings turning over roster this offseason

Minnesota Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah hasn’t stopped wheeling and dealing since the opening bell rang on NFL free agency last week. Gone are 2024 contributors LT Cam Robinson (Texans), C Garrett Bradbury (Patriots), G Ed Ingram (Texans) and aforementioned safety, Cam Bynum (Colts).

In their place, the Vikings have upgraded at center and right guard, with the signings of former Colts Ryan Kelly and Will Fries. They also beefed up the defensive interior, landing DT Jonathan Allen and DT Javon Hargrave.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Done Shopping for Safeties?

And let’s not forget about the talent they retained in the defensive secondary, with S Harrison Smith and CB Byron Murphy Jr. On offense, the were able to bring back RB Aaron Jones. They also swung a trade for talented young 49ers running back, Jordan Mason.

What they are not reportedly doing is pursuing Aaron Rodgers (at least for now). Instead, they are preparing to hand the QB1 keys over to JJ McCarthy. And if you ask Cam Bynum, he’ll tell you that’s probably a pretty good plan.

Reports leading up to free agency suggested that Minnesota had interest in retaining some of their free agent defensive backs. But even then, it seemed more likely Byron Murphy Jr. would be that returning piece, not Bynum. that was suggested as more likely than Cam Bynum though.

Cam Bynum leaves Minnesota Vikings for Indianapolis Colts

Just hours into the “legal tampering” or “negotiating” period, Cam Bynum’s exit out of Minnesota became unofficially official when he struck a deal with the Indianapolis Colts worth four years, $60 million.

Bynum’s new $60 million deal is a record for the Indianapolis Colts, under general manager Chris Ballard. The former MN Vikings celebration coordinator will will now play safety and coordinate dance celebrations for Colts second year head coach Shane Steichen and new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.

A fourth round draft pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, the former Cal Bears product earned a full-time starting role during his second season. Bynum played in 14 games as a rookie and drew three starts. In the three years since he has started all 51 games for Minnesota.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Free Agency Signings – 2025

2024 was a special year for the 26-year-old 2021 125th overall round pick. While he became synonymous with the exciting defensive celebrations, his play on the field spoke volumes as well. His three interceptions were a career-high, and he picked up a pair of fumble recoveries as well.

The 96 tackles Bynum posted in 2024 were a far cry from the 137 he racked up in 2023. Some of that certainly could have been situational or schematic related, but there were stretches where his ability to wrap up looked questionable.

On a four-year deal with the Colts, Bynum will make roughly ten times more than he did on his rookie deal with the MN Vikings. That’s a nice little raise for a mid-20’s safety just entering his prime.

Vikings turn over at least one safety position

With Cam Bynum no longer in the fold, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores will have a new starter next season. Theo Jackson will join Josh Metellus at the back end of the defense. Harrison Smith has also not yet made a decision for his future.

Jackson was a sixth round pick in 2022 and has played in 43 games for Minnesota the past three seasons. He appeared in all 17 during 2024 and recorded his first career interception. Jackson checks in at 6’1″ and just under 200 pounds. He should be expected to assume Bynum’s role on the defense which allows for Metellus to remain flexible.

Related: Sam Darnold Unofficially Leaving Minnesota

Flores is back as the Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator, and he will be looking to continue improvements for his unit. The addition of interior talent could help to mitigate the turnover that is taking place in the secondary. It remains to be seen how well the transition from Bynum will go, but the Vikings have a strong infrastructure and developmental success that should aid in the process.

But general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah — or Kevin O’Connell, being we aren’t sure who is calling the shots in Eagan right now — is making moves on Thursday, and it signals a likely change in the Vikings secondary next season.

Minnesota Vikings extend Safety Theo Jackson

Late this morning, news broke via Edina native Tom Pelissero (NFL Network) that the MN Vikings are extending the contract of safety Theo Jackson. Per DotComTom, as he is called by the Power Trip Morning Show (KFAN), where he is a regular guest, it’s a $12.6 million extension that runs through 2027.

The details on Jackson’s new contract are a bit murky, for now, being Jackson was a Restricted Free Agent this offseason. Thus, a two-year extension would technically only run through 2026. Either this is a three-year deal that is factoring in his RFA tender, as popular Vikings analyst Nick Olson pointed out on Twitter, or Pelissero has his years wrong.

The #Vikings and safety Theo Jackson agreed to terms on a two-year, $12.615 million extension through 2027, with the first two years fully guaranteed at signing, per source. Deal done by Equity Sports Agency.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 6, 2025

Related: Nobody Knows Who is Calling the Shots for Vikings

Either way, it looks like Theo Jackson, 26, is returning to the Minnesota Vikings on a deal that wouldn’t be afforded to a player who isn’t expected to see the field in the very near future.

Last season, Jackson played in all 17 games, totalling just 17 total tackles, 1 interception and 3 passes defended, as the Vikings’ third conventional safety. Josh Metellus plays a hybrid safety/nickel/linebacker role in Brian Flores’ defense, and played a lot last season.

What does Theo Jackson extension mean for Cam Bynum?

Theo’s new deal begs to question what the MN Vikings’ plans are this offseason at safety. The 2022 6th round draft pick out of Tennessee looks like he could be the new starting safety, and we are yet to hear back on whether or not Harrison Smith will retire or Cam Bynum will come back on an extension of his own.

But on Thursday, following the announced extension for Jackson, Alec Lewis (The Athletic) all but reported what the new deal means for Minnesota’s secondary next season. According to the Vikings beat writer, Cam Bynum is likely on his way to a new opportunity.

On Cam Bynum: Team obviously really likes him, didn't want to lose him. His reps and Vikings negotiated extension up to season but couldn't find common ground on number. Theo deal opens door to him starting next to Harrison Smith, if Smith returns. https://t.co/DrnNjUsQbk

— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) March 6, 2025

Related: Vikings Eyeing Two Linemen in Free Agency + Lots More…

If we read between the lines on Lewis’ tweet, it seems pretty clear that Cam Bynum will not be a Viking in 2025. We aren’t sure if Theo Jackson can replace Bynum as a Celebration Coordinator, but it looks like Brian Flores is confident in what he replace what Cam offered his defense before and after the ball was snapped for the last two seasons.

Harrison Smith expected to return to MN Vikings

Pair Alec’s hints with the most recent reporting from Darren Wolfson (KSTP, SKOR North) that Harrison Smith is likely to return, and the 2025 Minnesota Vikings secondary is suddenly starting to take shape, especially at the safety positions.

“On Harrison Smith, I’ll continue to say my sense is he wants to play football for another year, that will be here with the Vikings. The love he has for Brian Flores, I’m telling you — not that he doesn’t love Durante Jones or his Friday morning coffee sessions with Kevin oconnell, others in the building that are important to him — but that bond he has with Flores is through the roof.

Like, if Brian Flores had gotten a head coaching job [elsewhere], I’m almost convinced we’d be sitting here talking about Harrison Smith retiring, that he wasn’t going to come back without Flores present. But with Brian Flores locked in and expected to sign a contract extension at some point before the season starts, but certainly locked in for 2025, I fully anticipate Harrison Smith to be back.”

Darren Wolfson – Mackey & Judd Show (SKOR North)

Two key pending free agent defensive backs that the Vikings have to make decisions on sooner than later are safety Cam Bynum and cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. Both have had strong seasons, both are in line for raises and both contracts are due to void on Monday.

Minnesota Vikings picking and choosing between defensive backs

The Minnesota Vikings have money to play with but they have a lot of pending free agents, too. Nonetheless, the secondary stands out as one position group that is really in flux, with all six of the most important players (Smith, Bynum, Murphy, Gilmore, Metellus and Griffin) all set to hit free agency or retire.

So, what are general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and defensive coordinator Brian Flores going to do? Well according to a new report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Vikings are currently leaning toward re-signing Cam Bynum, who was drafted in 2021 and coming off his rookie contract. Unfortunately, same cannot be said for how conversations are currently looking between the front office and cornerback Byron Murphy Jr…

Several free agents — Byron Murphy II, Camryn Bynum, Cam Robinson, Aaron Jones — could get cushy deals elsewhere, but GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has shown adaptability in adding new talent. (A prime example is last season’s pass-rush duo of Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel.) In the secondary, the sense here is Murphy walks but Bynum could stay under a new deal.

Jeremy Fowler – ESPN

Fowler brings up a solid point. We know for that that the MN Vikings GM isn’t afraid to let players walk if it means finding better cap-friendly options. Last season was a perfect example of that. He let vets like Kirk Cousins and Danielle Hunter walk.

Then, he replaced them with less proven, but cheaper options, Sam Darnold, Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel, all of whom had standout years. Now, we can expect to see the same at a lot of these other positions (plus QB again).

Why Cam Bynum over Byron Murphy Jr?

Now that some of these aging defensive backs are wanting to get paid, there will be some that the GM sees as worthy and others who are not. Cam Bynum and Byron Murphy Jr are both going to get paid this offseason and it sounds like the Minnesota Vikings aren’t willing to put that many financial eggs into their secondary basket.

I’d imagine Bynum is the favorite because he’ll be cheaper. Murphy is now projected to get $22.1 million per year (4 years) this offseason, according to Spotrac. Bynum won’t be cheap, either. He is projected to make $17.7 million per year (3 years) by the same projections, making it much less risky.

Related: What are the Vikings Odds to Land Aaron Rodgers? Pretty Good…

Camryn Bynum was on the field for 1,056 snaps this season for the Minnesota Vikings, finishing with 67 solo tackles and three interceptions. His performance earned him a 61.6 grade from Pro Football Focus. Meanwhile, Byron Murphy Jr. logged 1,109 snaps, recording 72 tackles and six interceptions. He posted a 73.4 PFF grade and capped off his season with a Pro Bowl selection.

If Fowler’s sense’s are accurate, saying goodbye to Murphy won’t be easy. The cornerback, who joined Minnesota in the summer of 2023, put together two solid seasons in purple. But that’s just the reality of the business. Now, it’s a waiting game to see what the MN Vikings decide officially.

It’s pretty likely that not every free agent from Minnesota will hit the open market. The Vikings could opt to bring back talent who they already know, so they’ll need to make those decisions on a case-by-case basis.

MN Vikings free agents generating early buzz

There are far more than just 50 free agents hitting the open market this offseason. The Minnesota Vikings have nearly 30 of them on their own. Still, ESPN Analyst Matt Bowen recently put together a ranking of the top 50. Multiple Vikings players appear and Jeremy Fowler then provided an update on each of them.

6. Sam Darnold, QB

Ranked as the top quarterback available, Darnold is looking for a sizable payday. He earned that much with his great season. It’s possible that the Vikings bring him back on the franchise tag, and they could look to trade him as well.

“Several execs have Darnold in that Baker Mayfield range of contracts, which is around three years and $100 million with strong guarantees. The Raiders and Giants — both picking outside the top two spots in the draft — might need to pay a quarterback.”

Jeremy Fowler on Darnold (ESPN)

Darnold finished with 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns during his first season in Minnesota. He threw only 12 interceptions and wound up playing much better than the bridge quarterback he was expected to be. However, his performance in the last two games on the season may have hurt his market a bit.

This Sam Darnold throw is the definition of a DIME 🤯 pic.twitter.com/4BegUyBJ60

— NFL (@NFL) December 17, 2024

Minnesota has a potential franchise quarterback in the form of 1st round pick J.J. McCarthy. Darnold isn’t a lock to be back, but he should see a nice raise no matter what.

Related: NFL Pro Bowl Adds Another Minnesota Vikings Player to NFC Roster

14. Cam Robinson, OT

When the season started Robinson was a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Had the Vikings been bad, they probably wouldn’t have traded for him, after losing Christian Darrisaw against the Detroit Lions. Now though, he hits the open market and it’s hard to see a fit with him returning to Minnesota.

“Robinson quite possibly played his way above the $20-million-per-year threshold, with the recent precedent of Garett Bolles‘ four-year, $82 million deal in Denver as a comp. The Rams and Chiefs are among teams that could be looking for left tackle help. And a return to Minnesota isn’t totally off the table, after the Vikings traded for Robinson at midseason.”

Fowler on Robinson (ESPN)

It’s odd to think of Robinson being a fit for Minnesota, but Fowler isn’t ready to rule that out. That could be a reflection of where Darrisaw is at after suffering a season-ending injury. The Vikings aren’t going to pay tackle money for Robinson and play him at guard. He also probably isn’t taking a discount to move inside.

The Vikings certainly need to shore up the interior of their offensive line this offseason. That will be a focus whether Robinson is an answer or not.

20. Byron Murphy Jr., CB

Minnesota is facing complete turnover at the cornerback position. Stephon Gilmore, Shaq Griffin, and Murphy Jr. are all free agents. It seems Murphy Jr. is the most likely to return, but it won’t happen on the type of deal he signed two years ago.

“Sources say Murphy will be looking for a rather large raise from the two-year, $17.5 million deal he just played out in Minnesota. He has played his way into bigger money.”

Fowler on Murphy Jr. (ESPN)

The past two seasons Murphy Jr. has started 31 games for the MN Vikings. This year he picked off six passes, which nearly passed his eight total career interceptions to that point.

Byron Murphy Jr. picks off Flacco! @Vikings ball!

📺: #INDvsMIN on NBC/Peacock
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/7TApKh6Mzo

— NFL (@NFL) November 4, 2024

Related: Vikings Defensive Assistant Lands New Job Interview

It would be great to see the Vikings bring Murphy Jr. back, but he’s going to eat a sizable chunk out of their available cap space if that happens.

29. Camryn Bynum, S

Similar to the cornerback situation, the Vikings safety room could see real turnover as well. Harrison Smith is likely to retire, and Bynum hitting the open market would leave only Josh Metellus among starters. Minnesota appears motivated to keep their safety around, though.

“The Vikings and Bynum have had discussions about an extension. While nothing has materialized, both sides are open to it, and this could get done before mid-March.”

Fowler on Bynum (ESPN)

It would be a big boost for the Vikings to get a deal done with Bynum before he hits the open market. Not needing to negotiate against other teams would be helpful, and the continuity he provides in the secondary is a big deal.

Bynum has become a fan favorite in Minnesota and has spent his whole career with the Vikings. His three interceptions this season were a career-best, and he contributed 96 tackles as well.

Cam Bynum told me on Friday he and Josh Metellus had cooked up their best celebration yet. It was … the dance battle from “White Chicks”.

pic.twitter.com/ySkRqrZLT5

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 8, 2024

If the Vikings are going to move on, it’s a near certainty that their celebration excellence would take a significant hit.

33. Aaron Jones, RB

Another position that Minnesota will need to address this season is running back. Jones and Cam Akers are both free agents. That leaves just Ty Chandler as tested options. The former Green Bay Packer is probably open to a return, but he’ll also be 31 years old.

“Expect Denver to look for a versatile back to bolster Sean Payton’s offense. Could Jones fit the mold despite his age? He’s the kind of runner/pass catcher who just might.”

Fowler on Jones (ESPN)

Despite it being his eighth season in the league, Jones posted a career-best 1,138 yards this season. He was healthy for all 17 games as well. Both of those things are good. That doesn’t mean they predict future success though.

The Vikings have to decide if they think he replicates that success next season, they want to pay a higher price, and they believe he’ll remain healthy. Those are all questionable circumstances and drafting in a deep running back class might make more sense.

Minnesota landed five players among Bowen’s top 50, and that speaks to the quality that Kevin O’Connell had on his roster this year.

Related: Four Pending Free Agents the Vikings Need to Bring Back

In fact, there has even been chatter among insider circles that Harry the Hitman may be pondering a 14th NFL season in 2025, especially if Brian Flores returns as defensive coordinator, who Smith has built a strong relationships with, over the past two years.

Report: Minnesota Vikings secondary will lose Harrison Smith this offseason

Don’t tell that to local columnist and insider Charley Walters (Pioneer Press), who wrote pretty matter of factly on Sunday that the 29th overall pick from the 2012 NFL Draft is planning to retire when the season is over (see below).

With Smith hanging up his cleats, head coach Kevin O’Connell and defensive coordinator Brian Flores (or his replacement) will need to trust other players to lead the Vikings’ secondary. And according to Walters, they have a post Harrison Smith plan in place that includes extensions for both Byron Murphy Jr and (probably) Cam Bynum.

“It’s clear the Vikings will re-sign cornerback Byron Murphy, who has six interceptions this season, and probably safety Cam Bynum, because it’s unlikely Harrison Smith, who turns 36 next month after 13 seasons, will return.”

Charley Walters on the Vikings secondary (Pioneer Press)

During his illustrious Minnesota Vikings career, Harrison Smith has played in 192 regular season games. He has racked up 1,126 total tackles, has 37 interceptions, and 20.5 career interceptions.

The six-time Pro Bowl selection, and one-time All-Pro is likely to be a strong candidate for enshrinement in the Hall of Fame. No doubt he will be a Vikings Ring of Honor member very quickly.

HOF Harry doing HOF things.

📺: @SNFonNBC pic.twitter.com/Xc217Y1YBm

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) January 6, 2025

Byron Murphy Jr and Cam Bynum receiving extensions?

Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. just finished his second regular season in Minnesota, where the soon-to-be 27-year-old has taken his game to another level, intercepting NINE passes (including a career-high six INTs in 2024) and defending another 27.

Related: Vikings Insider Warns: Do Not Discount Kevin O’Connell Trade Rumors…

That’s four more interceptions than he ever got his hands on during his four seasons with the Cardinals, where Murphy Jr intercepted a total of just 5 passes. Murphy Jr has stepped up his tackle game too. In 2024, he totalled 81 tackles, the most of his career and 24 more than he got in 2023 (57).

Byron Murphy Jr. signed a two-year ($17.5 million) deal, prior to the 2023 season, and he is due for a raise in 2025. With aging veterans like Stephon Gilmore’s and Shaq Griffin’s respective returns up in the air, Murphy Jr. the Minnesota Vikings need a skilled, veteran cornerback they can rely on for the foreseeable future.

Byron Murphy Jr : 4 tackles & an INT pic.twitter.com/b7mM7J7bcm

— Lee Harvey (@MusikFan4Life) November 4, 2024

A former fourth-round pick, Bynum has a career-best three interceptions this season. His 96 tackles didn’t match the 137 he put up last season, but he has cemented himself alongside Smith at the back of the defense.

Related: Another Minnesota Vikings Coach Looking for a Promotion

Still on his rookie deal, four years for just under $4.2 million, Bynum is going to get more than that total on an annual basis. Minnesota needs to continue putting a strong foot forward on the defensive side. Continuity is one way to achieve that.

It’s clear the arrow is pointed straight up right now, but who has improved their stock the most through five weeks? Better yet, which Vikings have lowered their stock the most? Below, we dive into the 13 biggest winners and losers through five weeks of play.

Related: What We Learned About the Minnesota Vikings in London Win Over Jets

Winner: Sam Darnold

Prior to the Vikings’ Week 5 win, Darnold was looking like an early MVP candidate. His stats no longer have him leading the NFL in passing yards, but he still ranks second, and the rest of his numbers are still respectable.

• Sam Darnold stats: 63.5% comp. rate, 1,111 passing yards, 11 TD, 4 INT – 64.9 PFF grade (22nd among QBs)

Even if Darnold’s stats aren’t as gaudy as they once were, he’s still 5-0. As long as the Vikings keep winning, he’ll stay in the MVP conversation, but expecting him to win over other heavyweights like Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, or Patrick Mahomes is wishful thinking.

Still, he’s put himself in position to earn a massive payday from another team at the end of the season, and he’ll always have a special place in the Vikings’ hearts for taking a chance on him. After all, there’s no doubt the Vikings wouldn’t be on top of the NFC North without the former first-round pick.

Related: Where does Sam Darnold land in the latest NFL QB Rankings?

Loser: Ty Chandler

Entering the season, speculation pointed to Chandler nearly splitting rushing opportunities with Aaron Jones. Those reports couldn’t have been more wrong. We’ll get to Jones in a second, but this space is specially reserved for the Vikings’ backup running back.

Chandler has flashed moments of greatness. On Sunday, he had a 32-yard rush called back due to an illegal formation that had nothing to do with him. Otherwise? He’s been fairly ineffective rushing behind the same line Jones is thriving behind.

He’s carried the ball 42 times for 147 yards and zero touchdowns. That equates to just a 3.5 YPC average. For a point of reference, that’s worse than the 3.9 YPC Alexander Mattison averaged last season. In other words, Chandler just hasn’t gotten the job done.

Related: NFL Expert Kevin Durant Believes in the Minnesota Vikings and Sam Darnold

Winner: Aaron Jones

Chandler hasn’t lived up to the coaching staff’s expectations, but Jones definitely has. It’s clear the Vikings got a bargain by signing the former Packers Pro Bowl rusher to a one-year, $7 million contract. In fact, it might be time to see if he’s interested in a short-term extension.

The Vikings have been significantly better this season when Aaron Jones is on the field 💪

With Jones (165 plays)

– EPA per play: 0.02
– Yards per play: 6.1
– Plays resulting in a TD or 1st down: 30.9%
– Completion %: 72.5
– Success rate: 47.3%
– Yards per pass attempt: 9.7
-… https://t.co/NnJHi3Qxlx pic.twitter.com/lNxOPIiuBD

— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) October 7, 2024

When healthy, Jones has helped power an offense that ranks sixth in scoring this season. He’s done so while averaging a robust 4.9 YPC, racking up 350 yards and a rushing touchdown on 71 carries. Darnold has also learned to rely on him as a pass-catcher, where the 30-year-old has tacked on an additional 167 receiving yards and a TD catch on 17 receptions.

As great as some of the other free agency signings have been, a strong case can be made that Jones has been the single greatest addition to the Vikings’ roster this offseason. Yet, there are plenty of other contenders who can claim that title too.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Injury News: Latest Update on Aaron Jones Hip Injury

Loser: Ed Ingram

You already know the story. The Vikings selected Ed Ingram with the 59th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He was selected ahead of several players who have since become Pro Bowlers such as James Cook (Dalvin’s brother), Riq Woolen, and Brock Purdy.

Sure, he’s been a constant fixture in the starting lineup for all 37 games of his career. The issue is he grades very poorly in pass protection. This year he has a 29.4 grade per Pro Football Focus for his pass blocking. He’s lightyears ahead as a run blocker, with a still below-average grade of 62.2. Add it all up, and Ingram ranks 61st among 70 guards graded by PFF this season. In other words, he’s replaceable.

Does @Vikings RG Ed Ingram need replaced once G Dalton Risner is healthy?

Thru 5 weeks (per @PFF)*:
💥Overall: 52.7 (155 of 177)
💥Run Block: 62.2 (107 of 177)
💥Pass Block: 29.4 (173 of 177)
💥3 sacks (159 of 177)
💥1 QB hit (T-64 of 177)
💥13 QB hurries (176 of 177)
💥17 QB… pic.twitter.com/86s6vs6kjS

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) October 7, 2024

Related: Minnesota Vikings Fans Love Aaron Jones… but Not Like His Former QB Does

Winner: Patrick Jones II

Feeling like they needed more pass-rushers, the Vikings traded up to select Dallas Turner in the first round of April’s draft. Yet, if Brian Flores knew how much production he’d get from Patrick Jones II as he enters a contract year, maybe Turner would have never been selected.

Obviously Turner is still the future at the position, but Jones has performed very well in a rotational role. It’s been just five games, but he’s already up to a career-high five sacks this season. That’s included back-to-back two-sack performances to start the season after cooling off as of late.

Still, for a 26-year-old in a career year, Jones is setting himself up for a nice payday in free agency, and it probably won’t come from the Vikings with them already invested in Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Turner.

Related: Rich Eisen Called Out by Internet (and KFAN) for Biased Call of Vikings vs Jets

Loser: Dallas Turner

Have you seen Dallas Turner? To be fair, the 17th overall pick was one of the youngest players selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, at just 21 years old. The Vikings didn’t add him to the roster and expect Turner to be the team’s defensive MVP as a rookie.

Turner did miss a game with an injury, and he’s played just 78 defensive snaps, or 27% of the team’s plays when he’s healthy. But let’s not even think about placing a bust label on this sack artist yet. He did record a sack in his NFL debut, and even blew up a play in Sunday’s win over the Jets.

Yet, for those who expected Turner to compete for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award have to be a bit disappointed so far. But Turner’s slow start is due to no fault of his own, it’s simply due to how well his teammates ahead of him on the depth chart are playing.

Related: Top 10 Minnesota Vikings 1st Round Draft Picks of All-Time

Winner: Andrew Van Ginkel

Admit it, when Andrew Van Ginkel signed, many Vikings fans asked, “Who?” It hasn’t taken the Iowa native long to make an impression. In fact, he’s made a case to be the Vikings’ defensive MVP thus far. Some NFL experts are even asking themselves whether AVG is the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year right now.

Andrew Van Ginkel, who also had an interception-return TD in Week 1, is the first player in @NFL history with 3 sacks and multiple interception-return TDs in his team's first 5 games of a season. https://t.co/2napWrXhKy

— NFL345 (@NFL345) October 6, 2024

Van Ginkel has an elite 90.8 coverage grade via PFF through five weeks (best mark among edge rushers). Which is crazy, considering his primary job is to rush the passer.

But his unique skillset is exactly what the Vikings were attracted to. When quarterbacks line up at the line of scrimmage, they have absolutely no clue whether Van Ginkel is about to drop back in coverage or rush full speed at their feet. It’s working to perfection.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Partying Like it’s 1998

Loser: Levi Drake Rodriguez

Let’s not be too harsh here. Levi Drake Rodriguez was always considered a longshot prospect from the very moment he arrived with the Vikings as the 232nd pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Many seventh-round picks like him don’t even make the team.

Yet, LDR snuck onto the roster thanks to a non-stop motor plus a lack of defensive line depth in Minnesota. However, we’ve seen fellow undrafted rookie Taki Taimani active for all five games, and Rodriguez has been a healthy scratch in all five.

But this means nothing in the grand scheme. Odds are, the Vikings are still very high on the 24-year-old prospect, he may just need a bit more seasoning before the coaching staff feels they can trust him in a live game.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Already ‘Love’ Their New Longshot NFL Prospect X

Winner: Stephon Gilmore

When the Vikings were sniffing around Stephon Gilmore, many fans said, “Don’t bother.” This was partially because he was still unsigned. If 31 other teams don’t want him, why should the Vikings? It likely didn’t help that Gilmore is also 34 years old.

The haters couldn’t have been more wrong. Gilmore has assumed the No. 1 cornerback job from the moment he put on pads, and the Vikings’ defense has never looked back. So far, through five games, Minnesota’s pass defense is one of the best in the NFL, allowing the sixth-fewest yards per attempt, and having the most interceptions.

Gilmore’s superpowers were on full display in the Vikings’ Week 5 win over the Jets, where the former DPOY winner leaped in front of an errant Aaron Rodgers pass to clinch yet another victory for the fellas in purple. Gilmore’s been a breath of fresh air for a secondary that had more questions than answers before the season kicked off.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Draft Picks 2025: Tracking Future Vikings Draft Picks, Vikings Draft History

Loser: Byron Murphy Jr.

No cornerback has been targeted more than Byron Murphy Jr through five weeks. Quarterbacks have thrown his way 48 times. He’s allowed a catch on 35 of those opportunities. Thus, no other player has allowed more yards in coverage than Murphy, who’s allowed 405 yards, and two touchdowns.

Murphy has recorded an interception, but he’s also missed more tackles than any other cornerback (tied with former Viking Mike Hughes at 9). This has led to pass-catchers picking up an additional 144 yards after catch.

Among corners who have played at least 50% of their team’s snaps, Murphy grades 50th overall, which suggests he’s been no better than average. Yet, with the 26-year-old in a contract year, it’s possible the Vikings try replacing him during the offseason. Then again, he’s still young, so maybe learning from Pro Bowl corners like Gilmore and Shaq Griffin can help Murphy learn a thing or two too.

Related: Top 10 Minnesota Vikings QB Draft Picks of All-Time

Winner: Cam Bynum

Another Vikings defender setting himself up to cash in during free agency is Camryn Bynum. He’s in the final year of his rookie deal, but is tied for the team lead with two interceptions. He’s also just nine tackles behind Blake Cashman for the team lead, showing his versatility in coverage and in run support.

Once Harrison Smith says his farewell, the Vikings will still be in good hands, knowing Bynum and Josh Metellus will maintain some level of consistency in Minnesota’s secondary. But for now, Bynum’s showing he’s not only one of the best defenders on the team, but possibly even good enough to earn the first Pro Bowl nod of his career. Plus, his celebration game is immaculate.

Cam Bynum: "We're on a generational celebration run right now. This might've been one of my favorites. It's one of my favorite movies. It's based on London. I watched that movie last week, and I'm, like, 'This is it.'" https://t.co/rnbCAmOK21

— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) October 6, 2024

Related: Do the Minnesota Vikings have the NFL’s best defense?

Loser: Akayleb Evans

Before the season kicked off, Akayleb Evans was being looked at as a potential starting cornerback. Yet, after adding Gilmore and Griffin, the 2022 fourth-round pick has completely fallen out of favor. Instead of playing valuable snaps on defense, the Vikings have stuffed Evans into a special teams role, where he gave everyone multiple scares against the Jets.

First, Evans collided with punt returner Brandon Powell, which could have led to a fumble and/or a change of possession. Of course, the replay showed Evans got pushed into Powell, so there wasn’t an issue, but unless he starts thriving in his new role, the 25-year-old’s long-term future in Minnesota could be in serious doubt.

Related: Top Minnesota Vikings Moments in Team History

Winner: Brian Flores

Is there really a bigger winner than Brian Flores? The second-year Vikings defensive coordinator somehow didn’t receive a single head coaching interview last season. His lawsuit against the NFL may have something to do with the non-interest.

Yet, at some point, if you’re a team making a new hire, how can you not reconsider Flores to lead your organization? There have been nothing but positive reports about the coach since he arrived in Minnesota, and his defenses are causing fits for every quarterback it takes on.

The Vikings went from allowing 21.3 points per game in 2023 to just 15.2 in 2024, where they currently allow the fourth-fewest points in the league. Allowing the second-fewest yards per rush (3.6) has certainly played a key factor, but the Vikings aren’t just geared to stop the run, they also have recorded the second-most sacks in the NFL. Brian Flores, you are a hero.

Related: There’s a New Graphic Trying to Put the Minnesota Vikings in the Super Bowl…

Loser: Brandon Powell

When the Vikings are 5-0, it’s hard to find someone to pick on. But we couldn’t make a list full of winners, because there’s some darkness in this world too.

Brandon Powell gets a bad rap here, but it’s not because he’s been this horrible player or anything. He hasn’t gotten many opportunities since losing the third WR role to Jalen Nailor, but he has maintained his job as the team’s leading returner.

Yet, there just haven’t been many chances for him to thrive yet thus far. He’s only taken seven punt returns, where he’s gained 36 yards. That ranks second-worst in the NFL in yards per return, albeit in a very small sample size. At least he’s not muffing punts!

Related: Kevin O’Connell Takes Lead in NFL Coach of the Year Race

That’s why we could see some contract levers pulled on throughout the roster. General Manager Kwesi Adofo Mensah is running out of cap space available on the Vikings’ 2024 books. Thus, we should be on the lookout for contract restructures and/or extensions that make sense.

One extension candidate that has been on the Vikings’ radar, for months, is 26-year-old safety, Cam Bynum. The 2021 fourth round pick has blossomed next to Harrison Smith and locking him up long term is an easy decision, especially if the Cal product is willing to do it at a reasonable price.

Mixed in the middle of an absurd paragraph with dozens of random contract notes throughout the league, Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) includes that, “the Vikings are trying to extend safety Camryn Bynum“.

Cam Bynum playing hardball with the Minnesota Vikings during ongoing contract talks?

So, we can all expect breaking news in the next couple of days, about a Cam Bynum extension, right? Well, not so fast, says Darren “Doogie” Wolfson (KSTP SKOR North). During his Scoops session today, on the Mackey & Judd Show, the two sides remain in contact, but an extension is not close.

What’s wrong? Doogie seems to be hearing from his sources that Cam isn’t in any hurry to sign a new deal. He’s already scheduled to make around $3 million this season, and sees a big time payday on the horizon, if he plays well.

“I’ve mentioned previously, there is mutual interest, there has been dialogue on a Cam Bynum extension. But from my sense, there’s just no real momentum, heading into Sunday. It could always change, right? We know that both sides are motivated to get a deal done. I just think that’s a tricky [extension to get done].

He got the escalator so he’s making good money this year, making like three-ish million dollars, so it’s not like cam is yearning right this second, to sign an extension. You look at the safety market, from March, it has exploded. The cap is going up, up, up. So there is Cam Bynum motivation, just to play this thing out, get to unrestricted free agency, next March. But I’m not ruling it out, just based on, hey, there have been discussions, there is mutual interest.”

Darren Wolfson – Mackey & Judd Show (SKOR North)

Something to watch for…

You all can read/listen to that, and come to your own conclusions. But, in the midst of contract negotiations, that sure sounds like a guy who is letting his general manager know, ‘hey, if you don’t want to pay me close to market value, then I’ll just wait’.

Related: Vikings Bringing in Punter Competition for Ryan Wright

We’ll see if the two sides can find a middle ground over the next few days, leading all the way up to kickoff between the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. If not, it isn’t impossible to work out a deal mid-season, but history tells us it is much less likely.

Minnesota Vikings’ safety Cam Bynum potentially shifting to cornerback?

According to Paul Allen (Voice of the Minnesota Vikings) via KFAN, he noted that he saw Bynum getting reps with the cornerbacks and defensive backs coach Durante Jones. Although this seems like potentially big news, it’s not that uncommon for safeties to get reps as a cornerback to refine coverage skills. At the same time, Bynum has spent many years playing cornerback in college.

Don’t rule out #Vikings Cam Bynum switching from S to CB given the depleted CB room heading into the season 👀

During yesterday’s practice, @PAOnTheMic via @KFAN1003 noted that he saw Cam Bynum being “waved” over to work with DB coach Durante Jones.

“I saw Murphy and Shaq… https://t.co/pMhUDNxh2x pic.twitter.com/aX4RZIkaGr

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) July 26, 2024

I saw Murphy and Shaq Griffin with DB’s coach, Durante Jones. And then Cam Bynum was waved over. And this was early in practice. And Cam Bynum, a former corner at the University of California, he was doing some work with the corners yesterday.

Paul Allen (Voice of the Minnesota Vikings) via KFAN

Related: WATCH: Kevin O’Connell Delivers Powerful Speech At Khyree Jackson’s Funeral

The Minnesota Vikings are very depleted in the cornerback room. Due to uncontrollable situations, Khyree Jackson was killed in a car crash just a couple weeks back. Aditionally, Mekhi Blackmon tore his ACL on the first day of training camp.

What’s next for the Minnesota Vikings’ cornerback room?

What’s clear now is the Vikings plan is to add another “impact” cornerback from the free agent market. Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed this before Saturday’s training camp practice with fans in attendance. No specific names were mentioned but there are a few decent cornerbacks out there to sign.

#Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell noted that GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is working on finding an "impact" free agent if they want to come here, specifically at CB 👀 pic.twitter.com/bASvYxCxZb

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) July 27, 2024

If the Minnesota Vikings don’t do anything splashy, cornerbacks Akayleb Evans and Andrew Booth Jr. have an opportunity to prove themselves. Despite the opportunity, they’ve both shown critical weaknesses in their Vikings’ tenure. All in all, the Vikings have a few options to fill the need at cornerback. Will someone step up / sign a free agent or will the Vikings move Bynum from safety to cornerback? Only time will tell.

Bynum became a full time starter in 2022 after beating out first-round draft pick Lewis Cine who’s struggled to grasp play calling. Since then, he’s continued to flourish on defense and has proven he’s a quality starter in the secondary.

Contract extension for Vikings’ Cam Bynum before season opener?

On the latest episode of Minnesota Vikings Scoops, Darren Wolfson (KSTP, SKOR North) stated that the Vikings and Bynum have mutual interest on getting a contract extension done this offseason. Wolfson specifically noted a timeline of either right before training camp, which is at the end of July, or right before the season opener against the New York Giants.

Per @DWolfsonKSTP via @SKORNorth, the #Vikings and S Cam Bynum have mutual interest in a contract extension.

Wolfson noted that it could happen right before training camp / late July or before the season opener 👀

"I did talk with Cam Bynum about a potential contract… pic.twitter.com/Shen0yfn7K

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) June 6, 2024

“I did talk with Cam Bynum about a potential contract extension. He paused, just reading his body language, you know, deferring to his agent… but my sense is there is mutual interest in getting an extension done, whether it’s right before training camp, late July… or perhaps, comprebal to Josh Metellus this time last year… it could be one of those situations where he signs an extension before the opener against the New York Giants. But keep an eye on Cam Bynum in a contract year. [There’s] mutual interest, the Vikings getting a Cam Bynum extension done.”

Darren Wolfson (KSTP – SKOR North)

Per Spotrac, Bynum hit some proven performance escalators in his contract and is currently due $3.1 million this season. However, Bynum is heading into the last year of his rookie contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent after this upcoming season.

Cam Bynum’s outlook with the Vikings?

It seems more than likely that the Vikings and Bynum will reach an agreement at some point in the near future regarding a contract extension. Although the safety room seems deep at this moment, this could potentially be Harrison Smith’s final season before he retires.

Meanwhile, Lewis Cine seems to be at risk of not making the roster. If that’s the case, the only other safeties are Theo Jackson, Josh Metellus and Jay Ward. It is also worth noting that Jackson will be an unrestricted free agent after this season.

Related: Winter Warriors: Minnesota Vikings New Alternate Uniforms Released

Not only does the safety room project to get thinner over this next year, Bynum’s proved he is a competent starter in the secondary. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Bynum was the most improved player from 2022 to 2023. His overall grade went from 58.2 (2022) to 73.2 (2023).

#Vikings S Cam Bynum was the MOST improved player per @PFF.
🏈2022 Grade: 58.2
🏈2023 Grade: 73.2

"He played more than 1,100 snaps and ranked as the 4th highest graded safety in the NFL over the first 14 weeks before tailing off toward the end of the year."

📸: @SInow pic.twitter.com/8vLzW3NfmB

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) January 28, 2024

That’s a significant improvement in just one season. Bynum was the fourth highest graded safety in the NFL for the first 14 weeks of the season, before tailing off toward the end of the year.

Overall, it’s unclear what his contract extension would look like. He obviously won’t command Antoine Winfield Jr. money but definitely won’t be making bare minimum safety money either. In the end, it seems quite clear that Bynum and the Vikings want to get a deal done that makes sense for both sides sooner rather than later.