Vikings Lock Down CB Byron Murphy with 3-Year, $66M Extension
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – The Minnesota Vikings are keeping a key piece of their defense, agreeing to a three-year, $66 million deal with cornerback Byron Murphy, per NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. This move ensures that the Vikings retain one of their most valuable defensive playmakers, as they continue to solidify their secondary for the future.
Murphy Stays in Minnesota
After signing with the Vikings in 2023, Murphy quickly became the team’s top cornerback, showcasing his ability to shut down elite wide receivers while also being a versatile weapon in defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme.
Last season, Murphy recorded:
✅ 58 tackles
✅ 12 pass breakups
✅ 4 interceptions
✅ 2 forced fumbles
His ability to lock down receivers, create turnovers, and bring physicality makes him an essential piece of Minnesota’s defensive core moving forward.
Why This Move is Crucial for the Vikings
Minnesota has been rebuilding its defense over the past few seasons, and retaining Murphy provides much-needed stability in the secondary. With Aaron Rodgers in New York, a rising Jordan Love in Green Bay, and Detroit’s explosive passing attack, the Vikings know that having a strong secondary is essential to competing in the NFC North.
Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah spoke about the importance of re-signing Murphy:
“Byron is exactly the kind of player we want in Minnesota—he’s tough, intelligent, and a leader on and off the field. Keeping him in purple and gold was a priority, and we’re excited about what’s ahead.”
How Murphy’s Deal Compares to Other CBs
With this extension, Murphy joins the list of top-paid cornerbacks in the NFL. His $22M per year average puts him alongside elite defensive backs like:
💰 Jaire Alexander (Packers) – $21M/year
💰 Denzel Ward (Browns) – $20.1M/year
💰 Marshon Lattimore (Saints) – $19.5M/year
This deal cements Murphy as a franchise cornerstone for the Vikings, proving the team’s commitment to building a championship-caliber defense.
What’s Next for the Vikings?
🔹 Drafting a young CB? – Murphy is locked in, but the Vikings could still look to add more depth in the secondary.
🔹 Adding pass-rush help – The team may target another edge rusher to complement their defensive front.
🔹 Quarterback decision looming – With the Kirk Cousins era over, the Vikings may turn their focus to their next franchise QB.
With this move, the Vikings have taken a major step forward in strengthening their defense. Now, the pressure is on to build a complete roster capable of competing for a deep playoff run.
One thing is clear—Byron Murphy is here to stay, and Minnesota’s defense just got a whole lot stronger. 🏈🔥
