7 cornerbacks the Minnesota Vikings could target in free agency

Vikings Face Cornerback Overhaul: Key Targets for 2025 Free Agency

The Minnesota Vikings are entering the offseason with a pressing need to rebuild their cornerback room. With starters Byron Murphy Jr. and Stephon Gilmore heading into free agency, along with key contributors Shaq Griffin and Fabian Moreau, the team has limited options under contract for 2025.

Currently, the cornerback roster includes Mekhi Blackmon, who is recovering from a torn ACL, and depth players Dwight McGlothern, Ambry Thomas, Nahshon Wright, and Reddy Steward. General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah will need to secure at least two starting-caliber corners, and with ample cap space, the Vikings are poised to make impactful moves in free agency.

Here’s a breakdown of some top cornerback targets the Vikings could pursue:

D.J. Reed (Jets)

Reed may have been overshadowed by Sauce Gardner, but the 28-year-old is a proven No. 1 corner—or an elite No. 2. Reed has excelled since becoming a full-time starter in 2020, spending time with Seattle before thriving in New York. Known for his physicality, ball skills, and technique, Reed could seamlessly fit into Brian Flores’ defense, even with his 5’9″ stature.

Carlton Davis (Lions)

At 6’1″ and 206 pounds, Davis brings the prototypical size the Vikings may prioritize. The former Buccaneers standout impressed during his stint with Detroit before a season-ending jaw injury. With 80 passes defended since 2019, Davis ranks second only to Denzel Ward in that category. At 28, he remains in his prime and could add physicality to Minnesota’s defense.

Byron Murphy Jr. (Vikings)

Re-signing Murphy will undoubtedly be a priority after his stellar six-interception season earned him a Pro Bowl nod. His ability to excel in coverage, force turnovers, and play both inside and outside makes him a highly valuable asset. The 27-year-old has been a standout since his days as a second-round pick by Arizona, but his return will depend on cost.

Charvarius Ward (49ers)

Ward had an elite 2023 season, earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors with five interceptions and a league-high 23 passes defended. Though injuries hampered his 2024 season, the 29-year-old has a proven track record and the size (6’1″) to thrive on the outside.

Mike Hilton (Bengals)

Known as one of the best nickel corners in the league, Hilton could be a solid addition depending on how the Vikings use Josh Metellus, who might shift to safety. Hilton’s elite 91.7 PFF run defense grade and 12 tackles for loss in 2024 demonstrate his versatility and playmaking ability. Though he turns 31 in March, he remains highly effective.

Asante Samuel Jr. (Chargers)

A versatile and young option, Samuel has excelled both in man and zone coverage. The 26-year-old recorded six interceptions and 35 passes defended in his first three seasons before injuries limited him in 2024. A second-round pick in 2021, Samuel’s upside makes him a strong candidate for the Vikings.

Kristian Fulton (Chargers)

After a lackluster start to his career with the Titans, Fulton thrived on a one-year deal with the Chargers, setting himself up for a well-deserved pay raise. The 27-year-old has familiarity with Justin Jefferson, his former LSU teammate, and could be a great fit in Minnesota’s secondary.

Other Notable Names

  • Rasul Douglas (Bills)
  • Brandon Stephens (Ravens)
  • Stephon Gilmore (Vikings)
  • Eric Stokes (Packers)
  • Paulson Adebo (Saints)
  • Shaq Griffin (Vikings)

With a deep pool of talent available and significant cap space, the Vikings have an opportunity to reshape their cornerback room and set the foundation for a dominant secondary in 2025.

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