The Minnesota Vikings have signed cornerback Jeff Okudah, the third overall pick from the 2020 NFL Draft, to bolster their defensive lineup. The announcement came on March 18, 2025, following Okudah's visit to the team's facility the previous day, and reflects the Vikings' goal to strengthen their pass defense after struggling with one of the league's worst records last season.
Okudah, originally drafted by the Detroit Lions, has had his career sidetracked by injuries and inconsistent performance. During his three-year stint with Detroit, he played only ten of a possible 33 games due to various injuries, including hamstring, shoulder, and Achilles tendon issues. After being traded to the Atlanta Falcons for a fifth-round draft pick in 2023, Okudah saw limited action, playing just one season before joining the Houston Texans.
While with the Texans, Okudah was again plagued by injury, participating only in six games last season after suffering a hip injury on special teams during the season opener. He managed to record nine tackles and one pass deflection during his time with Houston, leading to questions about his productivity on the field.
With the Vikings, Okudah will have the opportunity to turn his career around and recover from these setbacks. He will be competing for the starting cornerback position opposite Byron Murphy, who had an impressive performance last season, recording six interceptions. The Vikings also added cornerback Isaiah Rodgers from the Philadelphia Eagles and the Indianapolis Colts this offseason, creating significant competition within the secondary.
Given the Vikings’ pass defense was ranked No. 28 last season, allowing 242.0 passing yards per game, the signing of Okudah is seen as a necessary move to add depth and experience to the cornerback group. Fortunately, Minnesota has boasted one of the NFL's best run defenses, holding opponents to just 93.4 yards per game, which ranked second overall.
The Vikings are hopeful Okudah can adjust to his new environment and contribute positively to their defense. Team management and coaching staff are reportedly excited about the potential impact he could have on the team moving forward. If Okudah successfully navigates the competition and stays healthy, he may help turn around the team’s pass defense and live up to the expectations of being a top draft pick.
For now, both Okudah and the Vikings will look forward to the upcoming challenges of the season and the opportunity to make necessary adjustments to become more competitive.
