JUST-IN: Byron Murphy’s HUGE Contract Demands As Vikings Desperate to Keep Breakout Star,, But Cornerback Is Demanding Over $20 Million Per Year – Will They Pay Up?

After having the best season of his career, Byron Murphy is looking to cash in. The 27-year-old cornerback is seeking a contract worth over $20 million per year, according to Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline. Such a deal would place Murphy among the top six highest-paid cornerbacks in the NFL, although Derek Stingley and Sauce Gardner are expected to reset the market with their upcoming extensions.

Murphy, a second-round pick in 2019, signed a two-year, $17.5 million contract with the Vikings in 2023 after suffering a season-ending back injury during his final year with the Cardinals. He had a solid debut in Minnesota and followed it with an outstanding 2024 season, culminating in his first Pro Bowl selection. He recorded career-highs of six interceptions and 14 passes defended, establishing himself as one of the top young cornerbacks in free agency.

However, his desired contract may still be out of reach. Murphy is expected to receive offers with an average annual value (APY) between $15 million and $18 million, according to Pauline, which is still below his target. Two factors could impact his value: he has just one season of elite performance, and several other starting cornerbacks will also be available in free agency. If Murphy holds firm on his $20 million APY demand, teams may opt to pursue other options rather than paying that premium.

The Vikings are still reportedly “hoping” to re-sign Murphy, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. They recently extended the void date of his contract, allowing more time for negotiations before free agency begins next week. Murphy declined an extension offer last year, and his value has significantly increased since then.

The Vikings’ decision not to tag Sam Darnold could influence their talks with Murphy. The $20.2 million cornerback franchise tag would set a high benchmark for a long-term deal, but the $17.6 million transition tag could be a viable option. This would allow Murphy to test the market and push for his desired $20 million APY. If he doesn’t receive the offers he’s hoping for, he could resume long-term negotiations with the Vikings, starting from the transition tag amount.