Ownership must commit to Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and extend his contract next. From there the front office will work on roster construction for 2025. Minnesota has a boatload of free agents to consider the future of, and some should be a priority to retain over others.

Four 2025 Minnesota Vikings free agents to retain

There are plenty of holes for the Minnesota Vikings to fill. They will do some of that work on the open market, and they’ll utilize the draft picks they do have to bring in talent as well. There are a couple of guys they have gotten to know though, that they shouldn’t let leave the organization.

Byron Murphy Jr., cornerback

This should be the first person Minnesota reaches out to with when looking at a signing a new contract. Byron Murphy Jr. signed a two-year deal worth $17.5 million to join the Vikings in 2023.

He started 14 games last year before being healthy for all 17 this season. After three interceptions during his Minnesota debut campaign, he pricked off six this season. His 81 tackles were a new career-high and he made the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career.

ONE HAND ARE YOU KIDDING ME @byronmurphy 😱😱

📺: @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/eWHDOUl3Mk

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 8, 2024

The Vikings depth chart is ridiculously thin at cornerback going into the offseason. Stephon Gilmore and Shaq Griffin are both free agents as well. There isn’t a single returning starter, and Murphy Jr. is going to be in line for a pay increase.

Related: 5 NFL Free Agents That Fit the Minnesota Vikings Perfectly

Mekhi Blackmon returns next year, but coming off a season-ending injury it remains to be seen what his effectiveness will look like. The tragic death of Khyree Jackson continues to impact the room, and despite being a training camp darling, Dwight McGlothern had minimal impact this year.

Camryn Bynum, safety

This offseason is already going to be one of massive turnover for the Vikings at the safety position. It should be all but guaranteed that Harrison Smith rides off into the sunset. If Bynum is going to follow suit, the Brian Flores will be turning over the position entirely.

Bynum has been with the Vikings since he was drafted in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. His rookie deal was just shy of $4.2 million, and it wasn’t until this last year that he carried his first annual salary of at least $1 million.

Cam Bynum always has the @Vikings ready with full choreography 🕺

(via @Cambeezy_) pic.twitter.com/92Bvkzkkja

— NFL (@NFL) December 30, 2024

In his rookie year Bynum started just three of the 14 games he played. He has started 17 games in each of the last three seasons, and 2024 was his best as a pro. Bynum picked off three passes this season and recovered a paif of fumbles. His 97 tackles fell short of the 137 last season, but he was a key cog of Flores’ defense.

Minnesota still has Josh Mettellus on the back end of the defense, but he is best utilized as a hybrid weapon. Bynum is going to command a significant pay increase, and he understands that may not come with the Vikings.

Related: Former Vikings HC Mike Zimmer Unemployed Again

He certainly faded down the stretch and became a bit too known for practicing his choreography. Still, if the secondary is to have a level of continuity, then keeping Bynum around in the vein of Smith’s tenure makes a good deal of sense.

Daniel Jones, quarterback

No, the quarterback Minnesota should keep is not Sam Darnold. They have their face-of-the-franchise in J.J. McCarthy. Darnold’s development earned him a payday, and short of a franchise tag and trade, he should expect to find that elsewhere.

That doesn’t mean McCarthy will be given the keys during Week 1. He has had ample time to recover, but still needs to acclimate at the highest level. Daniel Jones represents an ideal backup that could play bridge starter in the meantime, if McCarthy is not ready.

The #Vikings have signed QB Daniel Jones to the 53-man roster and waived QB Brett Rypien. pic.twitter.com/ycem45v50j

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) January 7, 2025

He represents a potential higher ceiling than Darnold came to Minnesota with, and got a first hand look at how the Vikings transformed the former Jets and Panthers quarterback’s career. Of course Jones flamed out in New York, but he’s just two years removed from a playoff victory and he posted a 9-6-1 record in 2022.

Thanks to Ed Donatell, Jones already got the bag from the Giants. Minnesota shouldn’t need to pay him much money in order to stick around. The situation may wind up being similar to Sam Darnold with the San Francisco 49ers last year, and that deal cost under $6 million.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Coaching Staff Remains Untouched… So Far

Jones’ name shouldn’t cause fear from Vikings fans for either playing time or cap hits. He immediately gives Kevin O’Connell a better backup than Nick Mullens, and McCarthy would have another veteran to bounce ideas off of.

Cam Akers, running back

Similarly to the cornerback position, there’s an exodus at running back in Minnesota. Aaron Jones was signed to a one-year deal, and so to was Cam Akers. That leaves just Ty Chandler as 53-man roster options, and we have already seen that O’Connell doesn’t feel comfortable with him as the starter.

Jones had a career-best 1,138 rushing yards with Minnesota this season. He also remained incredibly healthy. That said, he’ll be 31 next season and the Vikings might not want to risk rolling the dice again.

Akers was a guy that Minnesota wanted again this last offseason. He went to Houston in hopes of an expanded opportunity, but the Vikings came calling and brought him back in a trade. Akers looked spry in a change-of-pace role.

CLUTCH catch by Cam Akers for the first down to seal it! 🔥

📺: #GBvsMIN on FOX
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/tqo6bSZaSp

— NFL (@NFL) December 30, 2024

Across 12 games he tallied 297 yards with a 4.6 yards per carry average. That’s even better than he was in 2023, and he could help a rookie to acclimate into the offense.

Although Akers has torn his achilles twice, he is still young and will be just 26 years old next season. Maybe he commands more than a one-year deal, but he definitely could be talked into the reality that the grass isn’t always greener.

Related: Vikings Linebackers Appear Committed to Minnesota

On a modest deal, the Vikings could get a starting caliber back to pair with a drafted rookie. It would be the first time he signs with them from the start as well.

With December now upon us, it’s not too early to start thinking about the offseason. Today, local insider Darren Wolfson gave us some food for thought during his morning scoop session.

Minnesota Vikings Safety Camryn Bynum to sign elsewhere..?

Vikings safety Cam Bynum is now in his fourth season with the Minnesota Vikings, having been drafted in the fourth round out of Cal in 2021. Since joining the team, Bynum has made a significant impact on the defense. In his rookie year alone, he played 211 snaps and managed to secure his first interception.

Since he’s come into his own, Camryn Bynum has been a massive presence on the field, racking up over 1,100 snaps for the Vikings in the past two seasons, and he’s on pace to hit that mark again this year. Bynum also has 8 total interceptions in his career so far.

But here’s the new question: are these the last five regular season games we’ll see him wearing the purple and gold? According to Darren Wolfson, that might just be the case.

Moving forward, Jud, like the money they’re going to need to invest in the cornerback position, correct? Cam (Bynum) is a free agent. Yeah, I think there’s going to be interest. Like, I look at what Green Bay paid (Xavier) McKinney. I’m not saying Cam (Bynum) is going to get that exact contract, but like if you want to pay Cam, that’s going to be expensive. I would bet on Cam being elsewhere, but I’m just saying, like, you’re going to have some dialogue there.

Darren Wolfson – SKOR North

Darren Wolfson compares Cam Bynum’s situation to Xavier McKinney, who after four years with the New York Giants, signed a lucrative four-year, $67 million contract with the Green Bay Packers in free agency. The question becomes whether the Minnesota Vikings would be willing to pay such a premium for their safety.

Why would the Minnesota Vikings not resign Cam Bynum?

Wolfson likely knowing General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s game plan, there’s a good chance the Vikings won’t break the bank for Camryn Bynum. Adofo-Mensah seems to prefer playing the long game, often looking to the draft for cost-effective talent or exploring cheaper options in free agency.

Related: Will Reichard Injury Update: Could Vikings Rookie Kicker Return vs Falcons?

Bynum’s been solid, sure, but with the team’s cap situation and Adofo-Mensah’s history of strategic draft picks, Wolfson would wager that the Vikings might pass on a hefty contract for Bynum in favor of scouting a promising safety in the draft or picking up someone who won’t demand top dollar. This approach aligns with Adofo-Mensah’s philosophy of building a competitive roster while keeping an eye on financial flexibility.

Cam Bynum is in his fourth NFL season, and the final year of his rookie deal. The 2021 fourth round pick has been making plays since his debut in the league. The only question now? Can the Vikings lock him up for the long haul?

NFL insider suggests Minnesota Vikings will sign Cam Bynum to a contract extension

In a recent article at ESPN, insiders Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano went back and forth exchanging different takes on some of the hot rumors they are hearing behind the NFL scenes. One topic surrounded likely extension candidates around the league. Fowler’s pick? Minnesota Vikings safety Cam Bynum.

I’ll go with Vikings safety Camryn Bynum. Minnesota and Bynum discussed an extension in recent months but couldn’t reach an agreement. As of now, he is set to enter free agency. He’s thriving in Brian Flores’ defense, with two interceptions, five pass deflections and a fumble recovery.

Making splash plays in a contract year is a way to nudge the team back to the negotiation table with a stronger offense. That could be the case here. Bynum also fortifies a clear position of need in the future. Harrison Smith is turning 36 in February. The Vikings released 2022 first-rounder Lewis Cine in August. Bynum has leverage and could wait until March to exercise it.

Jeremy Fowler – ESPN

Like Fowler pointed out, Bynum has already snagged two interceptions, broken up five passes, and recovered a fumble this season. Brian Flores knows how to get the most out of his guys, and Bynum’s the perfect example of that.

Bynum’s price is only going up

But the longer Minnesota waits to get him extended long term, it appears he will only get more expensive. Bynum’s four-year, $4.2 million rookie deal wraps up after this season, and if the Vikings can’t lock him down before then, he’s going to be one of the hottest free agents on the market this offseason.

Aaron Rodgers throws a pick on back-to-back drives! Cam Bynum with an interception this time! #SKOL #Vikings #Jets #NFL pic.twitter.com/5Yp6qA5xn0

— 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝕏 (@MessiahVikings) October 6, 2024

Related: NFL Insider Floats Minnesota Vikings as Possible Landing Spot for 5x Pro Bowl WR

That’s why Bynum is in no hurry to get a deal done. He has all the leverage. Fowler’s sources tell him that the Minnesota Vikings have already looked into contract options, but haven’t settled on anything.

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah needs to do whatever it takes to keep Bynum in purple and gold. With rumors swirling regarding Harrison Smith’s likely retirement at the end of this season, now is the perfect time to get Bynum locked up long term.

Jalen Nailor

The summer of Jalen Nailor is over. Coaches have consistently highlighted how well Nailor has performed during training camp. But now it’s time to put all the hype behind him and deliver when the games actually count.

• Jalen Nailor stats (career): 12 receptions, 208 yards, 1 TD

For Nailor, having a career year shouldn’t be too difficult. He’s entrenched as the WR3 behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. He’ll even have increased opportunities due to T.J. Hockenson’s injury absence, plus a possible Addison suspension later in the season.

Jalen Nailor on 24 preszn routes (small sample):

25% TPRR (very good)
3.9 YPRR (elite)
81.3 PFF REC Grade (good)

Vikings have lots of Qs behind Justin Jefferson (Addison: injury/suspension risk, Hock: injury). Nailor is a clear late round target for mepic.twitter.com/8GosRPpamp

— Sam Sherman (@Sherman_FFB) August 26, 2024

Not only will Nailor have a new career-high in receiving yards, he should have no trouble doubling his career yardage total. But to do so, he’ll have to avoid the injured list, which has been his biggest flaw so far.

Related: Top Minnesota Vikings Moments in Team History

Ty Chandler

Aaron Jones is the unquestioned Vikings’ starting running back. But that doesn’t mean Ty Chandler won’t see increased opportunities. After averaging a respectable 4.5 YPC last season, Chandler has earned a longer leash in Kevin O’Connell’s offense. Plus, keeping Jones’ legs fresher in his age-29 season will be crucial too.

• Ty Chandler stats (2023): 102 carries, 461 rushing yards, 3 TD, 21 receptions, 159 receiving yards

Chandler brings the type of explosiveness to the backfield that Alexander Mattison just didn’t possess. Get ready for Chandler to show off his 4.3 speed all season long. If he can get loose for big plays, the Vikings’ RB duo will be very productive, helping ease the burden from Sam Darnold’s shoulders.

Ty Chandler showing off the burst 💥

📺: #LVvsMIN on @NFLNetwork
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/HQXK9MseAZ

— NFL (@NFL) August 10, 2024

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

Harrison Phillips

Harrison Phillips has done a fine job since signing a three-year, $19.5 million contract with the Vikings in 2022. But now he’s headed into a contract year and his second season in Brian Flores’ defense. Not only will having the added pressure to perform and extra familiarity help, but he’ll also be boosted by all the new additions to the front seven and secondary.

• Harrison Phillips stats (2023): 92 TKL (2 TFL), 3 sacks, 2 PD – 59.7 PFF grade (65th among NFL DL)

Harrison Phillips on what Brian Flores has done for this Vikings defense #SKOL@horribleharry99 | @JOEL9ONE | @betmgm pic.twitter.com/acRnSgmIOq

— Green Light with Chris Long (@greenlight) September 2, 2024

Ideally, the Vikings will have a better pass rush with more versatile athletes available to be rotated in. Having players like Stephon Gilmore should force quarterbacks to hold onto the ball longer. Add it all up, and we could see the best version of ‘Horrible Harry’ yet.

Camryn Bynum

Cam Bynum may not be the human Swiss Army knife that the positionless Josh Metellus is, but he, too, can do it all. A former fourth-round pick, Bynum has continued to raise his ceiling in all three of his previous seasons. Now, we’re anticipating an even better result, with Bynum making a legitimate push to earn his first Pro Bowl nod. Yet, the 26-year-old was already pretty good last season.

• Cam Bynum stats (2023): 137 TKL (2 TFL), 0.5 sack, 9 PD, 3 FF, 2 INT – 73.2 PFF grade (21st among safeties)

We could see Bynum’s tackles go down with the addition of Blake Cashman, plus the continued emergence of Ivan Pace Jr. But Bynum can make an even bigger impact by creating more turnovers. If so, the Vikings’ defense could be a lot better than most expect.

Peanut punch! Camryn Bynum! 🥊💥 pic.twitter.com/a4sFP8li1z

— WeAreDBnation (@WeAreDBNation1) December 12, 2023

Related: Another Sam Darnold Believer Surfaces

Sam Darnold primed for career year with Minnesota Vikings

This one’s a no-brainer. Now that J.J. McCarthy isn’t breathing down his neck, Sam Darnold has nothing to worry about. There won’t be any knee-jerk reactions from fans calling for the backup if he makes a bad throw. This is Darnold’s job to lose.

But we wouldn’t bet on that happening. In fact, a strong argument could be made that the former No. 3 overall pick is primed for a career year.

• Sam Darnold’s stats in his best season (2019): 61.9% comp. rate, 3,024 passing yards, 19 TD, 13 INT

Kevin O’Connell sets his quarterbacks up to succeed with a scheme that gets pass-catchers wide-open. Plus, Justin Jefferson tends to make all his QBs look good. While we can all laugh at Darnold’s bloopers with the Jets and Panthers, for the first time in his career, he’s in a position where he can thrive. Seriously, look at one of the lineups he was dealing with in New York.

Looking at the last time the Jets played the 49ers back in 2020. These were the Jets starters that day. pic.twitter.com/qvIuyywhvU

— Brian Costello (@BrianCoz) September 2, 2024

We all remember the Chris Herndon nightmare. Frank Gore was 37. No wonder that was his last NFL season. But seriously, Chris Hogan, Breshad Perriman? Maybe Perriman would be this team’s WR3, but Hogan likely wouldn’t even make the roster, at least not the 33-year-old version Darnold got stuck with. How can a QB succeed with that rag-tag group of ‘talent’? The answer is, they couldn’t.

But Darnold doesn’t have to worry about that in Minnesota, playing behind what should be a decent offensive line and a skill position group that some feel could be the best in the NFL. All we’re saying is, don’t sleep on Darnold yet.

Related: How does Sam Darnold rank compared to his NFL QB peers?