Vikings sign rising star at position of desperate need
The Minnesota Vikings upgraded one of its weakest positions by making a major splash in free agency.
The Minnesota Vikings made a major splash in the free agency pool on Tuesday night.
The Vikings shored up one of its biggest positions of need by signing CB Byron Murphy to a two-year deal, per Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
Drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Murphy, spent his first four seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. He played in 56 games, starting in 48, and compiled 229 tackles, five interceptions, three sacks and 34 passes defensed.
In 2021, Murphy had a career year with career highs in tackles (64), interceptions (4), and 12 passes defensed. He played in just nine games in 2022 due to a back injury, but had this game-winning fumble return for a touchdown in overtime against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Murphy, 25, has the ability to play on the outside as well as in the slot. Not only can he hold his own in man coverage, but he’s a capable run defender on top of that. His aggressiveness and athleticism fit perfectly into Brian Flores’ defensive scheme.
With the departure of Patrick Peterson, who signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency, Murphy figures to slot in as the starter. The Vikings still have plenty of work to do this offseason, but adding Murphy is a move that will elevate the Vikings 31st ranked pass defense last season.
