Will Free Agent Corner Jeff Okudah Leave the Vikings Without a Deal?

Minnesota’s Strong Interest in Okudah

The Minnesota Vikings are making moves in free agency, and their latest target is former third-overall pick Jeff Okudah. The talented but injury-prone cornerback is visiting Minnesota, and reports suggest the team has been eyeing him for quite some time.

Alec Lewis of The Athletic noted that Okudah’s physicality and man-coverage skills would make him a valuable addition to the Vikings’ secondary. If signed, he would not only bolster the defense but also provide intriguing training camp matchups against star receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.

A Career of Highs and Lows

Okudah entered the league with sky-high expectations after being drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2020. However, injuries have hampered his ability to reach his full potential. Since entering the NFL, he has played in just 38 of a possible 68 games, missing significant time due to a variety of ailments, including a hip injury that sidelined him for nine games last season with the Houston Texans.

Despite his struggles, Okudah remains a physically gifted cornerback with the potential to excel in the right system. The Vikings may see him as a high-upside reclamation project, much like other injury-plagued players they’ve pursued this offseason.

Vikings Betting on Injury Comebacks

The Vikings have developed a pattern this offseason—targeting talented players coming off major injuries. They’ve already signed right guard Will Fries (broken tibia), defensive tackle Javon Hargrave (torn triceps), and defensive tackle Jonathan Allen (torn pectoral muscle). Additionally, they recently hosted wide receiver Rondale Moore, who missed all of 2024 with a knee injury.

This approach suggests the Vikings are willing to take calculated risks on players with past injury concerns, banking on their medical staff and player development team to get the most out of them. If Okudah is healthy, he could be a bargain signing with immense upside.

Will Okudah Leave Without a Contract?

The big question remains: will Okudah leave Minnesota without putting pen to paper? Given the Vikings’ need for depth at cornerback and their clear interest in him, it wouldn’t be surprising if he signs a deal before leaving town.

However, Okudah may want to explore all his options before making a commitment. If another team offers more guaranteed money or a clearer path to a starting role, he could delay his decision. That said, if the Vikings truly believe in his talent and medical outlook, they may push hard to secure a deal before he walks out the door.

Final Thoughts

Jeff Okudah’s visit to the Vikings is more than just a casual meeting—it’s a potential turning point for both sides. The former top-three pick is looking for a fresh start, while Minnesota is searching for value in a competitive free-agent market.

With a history of betting on injured players with high upside, the Vikings seem willing to take a chance on Okudah. Now, the only question is whether he leaves the facility as a member of the team or continues his search for a new home in the NFL.