The Minnesota Vikings have re-signed safety Theo Jackson to a three-year contract on Thursday, signaling a larger role for him next season.
According to Jackson’s agency, Equity Sports, the deal, which runs through 2027, is valued at $12.615 million, with the first two years fully guaranteed upon signing. Jackson, who was set to become a restricted free agent next week, has developed into a reliable backup and special teams standout over the past three seasons. Originally drafted in the sixth round by the Tennessee Titans in 2022, he was later signed off their practice squad by the Vikings to add depth.
Jackson’s role expanded during the 2024 season, as he played in all 17 regular-season games. His pivotal interception in Week 16 against Seattle helped secure Minnesota’s eighth consecutive win, a game in which veteran Harrison Smith was sidelined due to a foot injury.
Theo Jackson
Another key contributor, Josh Metellus, is a natural safety who could step into a starting role if Camryn Bynum leaves, but defensive coordinator Brian Flores values Metellus’ versatility, often deploying him in a hybrid role more akin to an outside linebacker than a traditional safety.
Both starting safeties, Harrison Smith and Camryn Bynum, are set to become unrestricted free agents next week. For the 36-year-old Smith, the decision hinges on whether he wants to continue playing. Bynum, who has started all 17 regular-season games for the past three seasons and was drafted by the Vikings in the fourth round in 2021, could price himself out of the team’s plans if he hits the open market.
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