No Tag for Byron Murphy Jr. Puts Next Steps in Process
The Minnesota Vikings have substantial questions to answer this offseason at multiple key positions. There is plenty of focus placed on the interior offensive lines, but the cornerback position is also a massive issue.
No Tag for Byron Murphy Jr. Puts Next Steps in Process
As things stand, the Vikings could lose four of their veteran cornerbacks. If no one is extended or brought back, only Dwight McGlothern and Mekhi Blackmon remain on the roster as options. Byron Murphy Jr. looks the part of the most likely starter to return, but he’ll now have to do so through an extension.
The Vikings gave themselves more time to negotiate with Murphy Jr. That is reflective of a reality that means both sides have a desire to work towards a deal. It also means that the franchise tag can no longer be placed on the veteran defensive back.
Murphy Jr. originally signed a two-year deal with Minnesota. After a second strong season, he is in line for a sizable payday. He’s not all-of-a-sudden going to become the position’s highest-paid player, but the bump will be noticeable. Minnesota would probably like to wrap him up before the open market suggests what they want to throw at him.
Any thoughts of using the franchise tag on Murphy Jr. would have been both expensive and a short term fix. The Vikings don’t have rostered depth at the cornerback position, meaning they need a plan for now and in the future. An extension with a player still on the right side of 30 could benefit them for years to come.
With less than a month until free agency opens, the Vikings will continue to work with Murphy Jr., hoping to find some middle ground. It seems like the fit with the franchise has been good, and you’d love to see that continue moving forward.
Another note with the Vikings making this decision regarding Murphy Jr. is that the possibility of using the franchise tag on quarterback Sam Darnold remains. Minnesota may hand their quarterback a gaudy one-year deal to keep him around or use him as a trade chip in acquiring additional assets.
Ted Schwerzler is a blogger from the Twin Cities that is focused on all things Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings. He’s active on Twitter and writes daily for Minnesota Sports Fan. As a former college athlete and avid sports fan, covering our pro teams with a passion has always seemed like such a natural outlet.
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