Key Takeaways:
– Minnesota Vikings might not re-sign veteran cornerback Byron Murphy Jr., making way for Charvarius Ward of the San Francisco 49ers.
– Ward, named by Bleacher Report as a potential replacement for Murphy, has gained a reputation in the NFL since his undrafted beginnings.
– The 49ers, facing a projected salary cap overage, may be forced to part with several valuable players, including Ward.
– Minnesota’s 2024 draft pick, Khyree Jackson, was considered a top-5 rookie fit.
Byron Murphy Jr’s Future Amidst Potential Viking Shakeup
The stage may be set for the Minnesota Vikings’ veteran cornerback, Byron Murphy Jr., to play out the final year of his contract this season. San Francisco 49ers All-Pro, Charvarius Ward, a potential free agent on the NFL horizon, could be his likely replacement if the Vikings decide against re-signing Murphy Jr.
Murphy Jr. has been instrumental in the Vikings’ slot cornerback role, although position versatility forced him onto the outside. Despite leading the squad with three interceptions in the previous season, Murphy Jr.’s coverage left room for improvement. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed a 102.0 passer rating when targeted.
Charvarius Ward: A Potential Asset for the Vikings
Despite lacking Murphy Jr.’s position adaptability, Ward’s undeniable talents make him a prospective vital asset to the Viking secondary lineup. The 2024 season witnessed Ward climb the NFL ranks and achieve a significant breakout from his undrafted start in 2018.
Ward’s game-changing achievements stand out. His Pro Bowl and All-Pro Honors in 2024, an impressive 84.7 overall and the NFL’s fourth-highest coverage grade (86.5) illustrate his formidable presence on the field. His tackling ability has earned him a rank of seven in the NFL, catching 71 and only missing on an 8.0% tackle rate.
As stated by PFF’s John Kosko, “Ward was very reliable, he forced 21 incompletions and made five interceptions. He was one of the best tacklers in coverage, producing 20 pass stops and set his career’s record for low opposition passer rating at 59.2.”
While Ward’s prospective availability on the free agency list could be seen as circumstantial, with the 49ers projected to be $38 million over the 2025 salary cap, this move could help both teams significantly.
Fourth Round Pick Khyree Jackson Proves Promising for Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings landed a promising player in their aggressive 2024 draft. Rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, despite being a four-round pick, has been recognized as one of the ten best “rookie-team fits” by CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso.
Trapasso says, “Jackson has Xavien Howard vibes. He has displayed fantastic athleticism and physicality, although sometimes he appears lost in coverage. This could turn around under the tutelage of Minnesota’s current defensive coordinator Brian Flores,” he added. The inclusion of Jackson alongside a potential talent like Ward could propel the Vikings’ defense to new heights.
While these planned moves are yet to be official, the strategic shuffle within the Minnesota Vikings could result in the addition of solid contributors like Charvarius Ward and Khyree Jackson.