NFL free agency gets underway in less than six weeks, and the Minnesota Vikings have 25 players on tap to test the open market.
One Popular Player Could Return via Vikings Free Agency
In addition to cornerback Byron Murphy, safety Camryn Bynum is one of the franchise’s top priorities to re-sign, at least on paper, and according to ESPN, the likelihood of a second contract for Bynum in purple is decent.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler wrote about Bynum’s free agency on Wednesday, “The Vikings and Bynum have had discussions about an extension. While nothing has materialized, both sides are open to it, and this could get done before mid-March.”
Bynum turned heads in 2024, making impact plays and firing up sweet celebrations along the way. With Harrison Smith’s retirement imminent, it’s safe to assume Minnesota will entertain re-signing Bynum for the long haul in February or March. Stay tuned.
Matt Bowen added about Bynum’s impending free agency, “He’s a glider over the top who can also fill alleys against the run. Bynum saw his value rise in Brian Flores’ defensive system in Minnesota. Over the past two seasons, he has 233 tackles, 5 interceptions and 12 pass breakups. He’s an interchangeable safety who can produce in multiple systems.”
If Bynum walked via free agency and Smith retired, Minnesota would be left with safeties Josh Metellus and Jay Ward under contract for 2025. Theo Jackson, too, would likely be re-signed.
It’s worth noting that the Vikings could explore a different free agent if Bynum left, possibly Miami Dolphins defender Jevon Holland, who has ties to defensive coordinator Brian Flores from Flores’ head coaching days.
Bynum said about his future one week ago, “I’m not sure what it’s looking like, but I’m praying I’m back here. I’ve loved everything about my four years here… being a Vikings, there’s nothing better. I’m praying it will work out, and I know God will put me exactly where I need to be.”
And per Pioneer Press’ Charley Walters, Minnesota will likely re-sign Murphy and Bynum. Walters revealed both declarations earlier this month, clarifying two top offseason priorities.
“It’s clear the Vikings will re-sign cornerback Byron Murphy, who has six interceptions this season, and probably safety Cam Bynum, because it’s unlikely Harrison Smith, who turns 36 next month after 13 seasons, will return,” Walters opined.
Bynum produced a 77.6 passer-rating-against in 2024, a wonderful mark. He’ll turn 27 in July.
His next contract could fetch between $6 and $10 million per season.
Dustin Baker is a political scientist who graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2007. Subscribe to his daily YouTube Channel, VikesNow. The show features guests, analysis, and opinion on all things related to the purple team, with 4-7 episodes per week. His Vikings obsession dates back to 1996. Listed guilty pleasures: Peanut Butter Ice Cream, ‘The Sopranos,’ Basset Hounds, and The Doors (the band). He follows the NBA as closely as the NFL.
All statistics provided by Pro Football Reference / Stathead; all contractual information provided by OverTheCap.com.