No matter how the Vikings navigate the offseason, strengthening their secondary will be a critical priority. Three starting cornerbacks and a starting safety are set to become free agents in March,
while veteran safety Harrison Smith’s potential retirement adds further uncertainty. Although Minnesota also needs to address the offensive line and possibly running back (contingent on Aaron Jones’ situation), their limited draft capital—only three picks, including a first-rounder (24th overall) and two fifth-rounders—makes targeting a defensive back early the likely strategy. Alternatively, they could leverage that first-round pick in a trade for an established star, such as Cleveland’s Denzel Ward. The Browns, facing cap challenges after a dismal 2024 season, might consider moving Ward. Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport proposed a deal on February 1 where Minnesota trades its first-round pick for Ward and a sixth-round selection. Davenport emphasized the Vikings’ dire pass defense (ranked 28th in 2024 and exposed in the playoffs), arguing that Ward would offer an immediate, high-impact upgrade over any rookie drafted at No. 24.
The Vikings face an urgent need to overhaul their secondary this offseason. With three starting cornerbacks and a safety hitting free agency, and veteran Harrison Smith potentially retiring, Minnesota’s defensive backfield is in flux. Limited to just three draft picks (including No. 24 overall), the team could prioritize a first-round defensive back or trade for proven talent like Cleveland’s Denzel Ward. The Browns, struggling with cap issues after a 3-win season, might offload Ward. Analyst Gary Davenport suggested a swap: Minnesota’s first-rounder for Ward and a sixth-round pick. Ward’s immediate impact could address the Vikings’ 28th-ranked pass defense, which collapsed in key moments during 2024.
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