The Minnesota Vikings have finally assembled a solid group of cornerbacks after facing numerous hurdles, with Stephon Gilmore being their most recent and high-profile addition.
Gilmore, a 13-year veteran, joined the Vikings on Monday, signing a one-year, $10 million contract with $7 million guaranteed. This move came a day after the deal was finalized. Known for his five Pro Bowl selections and being named the 2019 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Gilmore is joining his fifth team in as many seasons, and Minnesota has a pressing need for his expertise.
“Many players have already approached me for advice,” Gilmore shared. “I’m here to assist anyone who wants to improve. Whether it’s on or off the field, I’m here to contribute.”
Gilmore began his NFL career with Buffalo, being drafted 10th overall in 2012, and has since played for New England, Carolina, Indianapolis, and Dallas. In the past two seasons, he has been a key figure in the Cowboys’ secondary, especially notable during cornerback Trevon Diggs’ injury. Last season, he set career highs with 68 tackles, two interceptions, 13 passes defended, and one forced fumble, playing in a career-high 17 games.
The Vikings have faced significant setbacks, including the tragic death of rookie Khyree Jackson and the loss of second-year player Mekhi Blackmon to a season-ending ACL injury. Additionally, Shaquill Griffin, a major off-season acquisition, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury but is expected to be ready for the season opener.
Despite these challenges, coach Kevin O’Connell remains optimistic. “We’ve managed to hold our own despite the issues we’ve faced with the cornerbacks,” he said. “We’re in a good place with that group now.”
Gilmore’s familiarity with defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who previously coached him with the Patriots, was a major factor in his decision to join the Vikings.
“Gilmore has a tremendous opportunity to make a significant impact on our team with his leadership and skills,” O’Connell noted.
With the team’s confidence in their current cornerbacks waning, they have added four new players before Gilmore, making him the fifth addition. “I told him when he arrived, ‘You’re the missing piece we need in this room,’” Griffin said.
The Vikings now have a strong trio of experienced cornerbacks in Gilmore, Griffin, and Byron Murphy Jr., assuming they stay healthy. Akayleb Evans, who started 15 games last season, and Fabian Moreau, a recent addition with eight years of experience, are also key players. Veteran safety Harrison Smith further strengthens the defense.
Griffin believes Gilmore’s addition will greatly benefit the team, providing a valuable learning opportunity for younger players. “Adding him to this group is going to be incredibly beneficial,” Griffin said. “We have many young players who can learn a lot from him, myself included.”
Murphy is expected to continue as one of the main starters, particularly in the slot, while Griffin and Gilmore are likely to pair up on the outside during passing plays. This setup offers Flores better flexibility for his defensive strategies, which often include man-to-man and press coverage to complement his aggressive blitzes.
In the past, injuries and inexperience at cornerback have limited the Vikings’ defensive effectiveness, resulting in a ranking no higher than 24th in passing yards allowed since 2019.
Leave a Reply