Vikings Predicted to Pursue $49 Million Super Bowl-Winning Cornerback
Byron Murphy #7 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts during a game against the Chicago Bears.
While much of the offseason focus has been on the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback situation, the team also has pressing needs at cornerback. According to Ben Rolfe of Pro Football Talk, the Vikings are expected to target Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis III in free agency.
Minnesota may lose its top three cornerbacks in free agency.
Davis, 28, was originally a second-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played six seasons in Tampa before being traded to the Lions during the 2024 offseason.
“The Minnesota Vikings have several voids to address in their secondary,” Rolfe wrote on February 19. “Minnesota’s challenge is that they also need help at guard, running back, and defensive line.
“The good news is that they have the cap space to fill multiple gaps. One intriguing option is Carlton Davis, whose projected contract is under $14 million per year. That’s significantly cheaper than bringing back [Byron] Murphy, whose annual salary could exceed $22 million. This would allow the Vikings to invest in multiple veteran cornerbacks.”
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“The talent is undeniable, and Davis is coming off a career-best season in terms of QB rating allowed,” Rolfe wrote. “His availability is crucial, but when healthy, he is a premier cornerback.”
Carlton Davis III Brings Injury Concerns Alongside $41 Million Projection
Carlton Davis III #23 of the Detroit Lions before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Spotrac projects a three-year, $41.3 million contract for Davis, which might be too steep for Minnesota. Despite earning $49.9 million in his career, Davis has never played more than 14 games in a single season. He last did so in 2020, when he won a Super Bowl with the Buccaneers.
In 2024, Davis appeared in 13 games but missed time due to a knee injury.
“Durability is the biggest concern for Davis,” Rolfe noted. “He has missed games in every NFL season, including 13 over the past three years.”
Last season, Davis recorded 56 total tackles, 11 pass deflections, 2 interceptions, 2 fumble recoveries, and 1 forced fumble. He allowed a 55.3% completion rate on 42 targets, ranking 18th among all defenders with similar target numbers, per Stathead.
Over The Cap estimates the Vikings will have $63.3 million in available cap space this offseason.
Vikings Secondary Set for Major Overhaul Amid Davis Speculation
Carlton Davis III #23 of the Detroit Lions intercepts a pass intended for Tank Dell #3 of the Houston Texans.
Murphy, Shaquill Griffin, and Stephon Gilmore are all free agents. Minnesota will return 2023 third-round pick Mekhi Blackmon, who missed the 2024 season due to a torn ACL.
The Vikings also have a few developmental prospects, including coaching staff favorite Dwight McGlothern and former Chicago Bears undrafted free agent Reddy Steward. However, no other cornerbacks currently under contract played for them last season.
Additionally, the team could lose two of its top three safeties.
Camryn Bynum is set to hit free agency and may not return if the Vikings prioritize re-signing Murphy. Meanwhile, Harrison Smith could retire after 13 seasons in the NFL. The third safety, Josh Metellus, might be in line for a contract extension as he enters the final year of his deal.
Minnesota could see changes at quarterback, running back, and offensive line this offseason.
Their defense could also undergo a significant transformation, making room for Davis.