Vikings make depth signing fortifying Brian Flores' defense who is then next Kwesi Adofo-Mensah reclamation project

Vikings sign CB Jeff Okudah

It's been a wild ride for Okudah in his National Football League career. The third overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Okudah's struggled both on the field and staying on it as well.

He lasted just three seasons with the Lions before they decided to part ways with him after the 2022 season. His play wasn't very good during his three years. During his time with the Lions, he allowed 80 receptions on 118 targets (67.8%) for 1,286 yards and four touchdowns. Those numbers are bad on the surface, but they are even worse when you realize they are on just 756 coverage reps.

In fact, Okudah has just played 1,972 reps on defense over his five year career with two years under 100 snaps due to injuries: 48 in 2021 (torn Achilles) and 79 in 2024 (hip). 

With such little success in the NFL over the course of his career, why do the Vikings think they can extract more out of him than the previous three teams he played for? Simple: Brian Flores and Daronte Jones.

The way the Vikings play defense, you don't need to have elite level cornerbacks, but you need good athletes with length and instincts. The hope is that Okudah can do just that for you. 

The other element is the expectations on Okudah are relatively low. This isn't going to be a starting level deal, but a low-level one similar to either the Shaquill Griffin and Fabian Moreau deals.

If it works out, it's a huge hit and a brilliant move by Adofo-Mensah. If it fails, no big deal.