The Minnesota Vikings still have work to do at cornerback, and with several viable options still available in free agency, they could look to address the position soon.
Veterans Stephon Gilmore and Shaquill Griffin, both contributors in 2024, weren’t brought back, leaving a noticeable gap in the secondary. However, Ryan Smith of Pro Football Focus proposed an intriguing solution: signing free agent Rasul Douglas.
“Douglas had a down year in 2024, finishing 102nd out of 116 qualified cornerbacks with a 53.9 PFF grade. But prior to that, he was solid, earning a career-best 81.0 grade in 2023,” Smith wrote. “With Gilmore gone, Douglas could be a strong fit in defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ aggressive, blitz-heavy system. Minnesota didn’t use any of its five draft picks on a defensive back, likely signaling confidence in free agency to bolster the position.”
Vikings’ Pass Defense Was a Weak Spot in 2024
Last season, Minnesota’s secondary struggled, surrendering 4,114 passing yards—fifth-most in the NFL—at an average of 242 yards per game. Their run defense, by contrast, was dominant, allowing just 93.4 yards per game, second-best league-wide. That said, they still need more veteran help in the secondary.
The Vikings did make some moves. They re-signed Pro Bowl corner Byron Murphy Jr. to a three-year, $66 million deal after a breakout 2024 season with six interceptions. They also added Isaiah Rodgers, formerly of the Eagles, on a two-year, $15 million contract. Rodgers started 13 games last year and shows promise, but questions remain around Ambry Thomas and new addition Jeff Okudah.
Minnesota also signed undrafted rookie Zemaiah Vaughn from Utah, a lengthy and athletic corner who could surprise in training camp. Still, there’s concern that the current group lacks the experience and depth needed to execute Flores’ man-heavy scheme effectively. Could Douglas be the missing piece?
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Why Rasul Douglas Could Be a Good Match
Rasul Douglas, currently a free agent after finishing the 2024 season with the Buffalo Bills, could be a strong candidate to join Minnesota’s secondary.
Originally a third-round pick by the Eagles in 2017, Douglas had a journeyman stretch in 2021 before flourishing with the Packers, where he recorded five interceptions in just 12 games. He was later traded to the Bills in 2023 and remained productive.
In 2024, Douglas logged 58 total tackles (43 solo), five pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a career-high five tackles for loss over 15 games. He also played a key role in the postseason, recovering an onside kick that helped the Bills clinch a playoff win over the Ravens.
PFF projects Douglas could land a two-year deal worth up to $26.5 million, with $15.25 million guaranteed. If the Vikings are willing to invest, Douglas could be a key piece to solidifying their secondary.
