The Minnesota Vikings have struggled with cornerback issues for several years, and recent setbacks have complicated their efforts to strengthen their defensive lineup this offseason.
On July 27, Matt Holder of Bleacher Report published a list of the top five remaining free agents, highlighting two cornerbacksâStephon Gilmore and Ahkello Witherspoonâas among the most notable available defensive backs. Gilmore, a five-time Pro Bowler and former Defensive Player of the Year, commands a market value of $9 million for the 2024 season, reflecting his prestigious career achievements. In contrast, Witherspoon, who has previously started for the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams, is expected to be a more affordable option while still offering valuable experience for an aggressive Vikings defense under coordinator Brian Flores. Holder noted that While Witherspoon’s injury history has kept him on the market, he is coming off a career-best season with three interceptions and 14 passes defended.
The Vikings’ secondary has faced additional challenges due to injuries. Defensive back Mekhi Blackmon, a third-round draft pick from 2023, suffered a torn ACL during a practice on July 24. According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, this injury will likely sideline Blackmon for the entire 2024 season. Blackmon had played 15 games with three starts as a rookie and was expected to be a significant part of the Vikings’ secondary rotation.
Before Blackmonâs injury, the Vikingsâ depth chart was still unsettled, but Blackmon was anticipated to be a key second-string cornerback, competing alongside Byron Murphy Jr., newly signed free agent Shaquill Griffin, and Akayleb Evans. Another potential contributor, rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, a fourth-round draft pick in April, was also expected to vie for snaps in the secondary. Tragically, Jackson passed away in a car accident on July 6 in his home state of Maryland, further impacting the Vikings’ defensive backfield.
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