Free agency is a battle of priorities, with players looking to maximize their earnings and teams trying to find value to fill their rosters.
Under Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, the Vikings have excelled in free agency, with last year’s signings helping to elevate their defense to one of the NFL’s best. However, the 2024 free-agent class presents a new challenge, with Minnesota having more snaps played by impending free agents than any other team in the league. With 26 players set to hit free agency—23 of whom have voided or unrestricted contracts, 16 of them playing at least 25% of the snaps in 2024—the Vikings will have to make some tough decisions.
Here’s a breakdown of whether they should keep or let go of each key player:
QB Sam Darnold – Go
Darnold was solid for the Vikings in 2024, but after a rough end to the season and with first-round pick J.J. McCarthy waiting in the wings, it’s unlikely the Vikings will commit long-term. While Darnold could be a solid one-year option, expect other teams like the Steelers or Raiders to offer him a multi-year deal.
CB Byron Murphy – Stay
The youngest and most talented of the Vikings’ top three cornerbacks, Murphy is a must-keep. His versatility and ability to play both outside and in the slot make him crucial for the team’s defense. The Vikings should prioritize bringing him back.
LT Cam Robinson – Go
Robinson showed promise after being brought in mid-season but is unlikely to return, especially with offensive linemen in high demand. The Vikings should look elsewhere for a long-term solution at left tackle.
S Cam Bynum – Stay
A converted cornerback and former fourth-round pick, Bynum earned his starting spot and became a key part of Minnesota’s defense. He deserves to be rewarded for his development, and the Vikings should work to retain him.
S Harrison Smith – Go (Retirement)
Smith’s contract will void in March, and while he hasn’t decided on retirement, it seems likely that he’ll hang up his cleats after 14 seasons in Minnesota. If he chooses to play another year, the Vikings should welcome him back.
CB Stephon Gilmore – Go
At 34, Gilmore’s skills have begun to decline, and the Vikings are more likely to retain Shaquill Griffin, who is younger and still has plenty of potential. Expect Gilmore to find a new team.
RB Aaron Jones – Stay
Jones proved he still has plenty of gas left in the tank as the Vikings’ lead back. Given the weak running back class in free agency, he’s worth bringing back for another year, though the team might also explore the draft for a future star.
QB Daniel Jones – Stay
If Darnold departs, the Vikings will need a reliable backup to McCarthy. Daniel Jones could be a perfect fit, using 2025 to rebuild his image under Kevin O’Connell before aiming for a starting job elsewhere.
IDL Jonathan Bullard – Stay
Bullard played a key role in the Vikings’ run defense in 2024, and at 31, he might not attract much interest elsewhere. The Vikings should work to bring him back for another year.
CB Shaquill Griffin – Stay
Griffin wasn’t outstanding in 2024, but he’s solid enough to remain a reliable option for the Vikings. If the price is right, they should keep him, but they should also look for an upgrade through the draft or free agency.
OG Dalton Risner – Stay
Risner was decent in 2024, and while it’s tough to find quality offensive line depth, the Vikings should try to retain him. However, if they can find a better option, it may be time to move on.
EDGE Jihad Ward – Stay
Ward carved out a role as an interior pass rusher, playing a crucial part in the Vikings’ defense. He should remain with the team, especially with his experience and specific role.
IDL Jerry Tillery – Go
Tillery played a rotational role in 2024 but was phased out by season’s end. With younger players like Jalen Redmond and Taki Taimani developing, the Vikings are likely to move on from Tillery.
EDGE Pat Jones II – Go
Jones had a productive season, but with a crowded edge-rushing group and limited opportunities for increased playing time, he’ll likely find a starting role elsewhere.
OT David Quessenberry – Go
At 34, Quessenberry struggled when called upon, and the Vikings should look for a younger, more capable swing tackle this offseason.
P Ryan Wright – Stay
Wright had a solid rookie year but regressed slightly in 2024. As a restricted free agent, the Vikings are likely to tender him and bring him back, as there’s no obvious replacement better than him.
RB Cam Akers – Stay
Akers remains a favorite of head coach Kevin O’Connell, and despite limited opportunities elsewhere, he’s likely to return to Minnesota for a third consecutive season.
WR Brandon Powell – Stay
Powell didn’t contribute much as a receiver but remains a key part of the special teams unit. The Vikings will likely keep him around for his return skills and depth.
WR Trent Sherfield – Stay
Sherfield, a key special teams contributor and blocker, is likely to stay. While he didn’t make a huge impact as a receiver, his blocking and versatility are valuable to the Vikings.
LB Kamu Grugier-Hill – Stay
Grugier-Hill played a significant role when injuries hit the linebacker corps and is a core special teamer. He shouldn’t cost much, making him a good candidate to return.
CB Fabian Moreau – Stay
Moreau didn’t play much but was serviceable when needed. The Vikings should re-sign him for depth, especially since he won’t command a high price.
S Theo Jackson – Stay
With Smith likely retiring, Jackson could finally see significant playing time. He’s also a restricted free agent, so the Vikings will likely retain him for depth.
QB Nick Mullens – Go
Mullens is entertaining, but with the Vikings likely looking to add competition for McCarthy, Mullens may find himself replaced by a more capable backup option.
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