Vikings Re-Sign Prized $42 Million Free Agent

The Minnesota Vikings may not let one of their biggest pending free agents get out the door. Approaching an offseason with over 20 pending free agents, the Vikings tied for the most top-100 eligible free agents by Pro Football Focus (PFF). Seven free agents rank among the NFL’s best and would like to test their market. However, there’s one that Minnesota is moving to not let out the door. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on Jan. 29 that “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. Ranked the No. 3 free-agent safety and 31st overall, Bynum is projected to garner a three-year deal worth $42 million by PFF. A 2021 fourth-round pick, Bynum evolved in Brian Flores’ defense and has shown an ability to learn and adapt over the years as a converted college cornerback. Related: Vikings’ $42 Million Star Makes Honest Admission on Uncertain Future “He’s a glider over the top who can also fill alleys against the run. Bynum saw his value rise in Brian Flores’ defensive system in Minnesota,” ESPN’s Matt Bowen wrote. “Over the past two seasons, he has 233 tackles, 5 interceptions and 12 pass breakups. He’s an interchangeable safety who can produce in multiple systems.”

The decision on whether the Vikings are willing to pay Bynum hinges on Harrison Smith’s future. Smith, 35, is also eligible for free agency but is considering retirement for a second straight offseason. The safety duo is among five starters in the secondary whose futures are unclear in Minnesota. Starting cornerbacks Byron Murphy Jr., Stephon Gilmore and Shaq Barrett are poised to reach free agency as well along with backup Fabian Moreau.