The Minnesota Vikings are at a crossroads after a promising regular season ended on a sour note, with a crushing loss to the Lions and a disappointing Wild Card defeat to the Rams. As the team looks ahead to 2025, changes are inevitable if they want to contend for a Super Bowl. With key defensive players like cornerbacks Stephon Gilmore, Shaquil Griffin, and Byron Murphy Jr. hitting free agency, the Vikings must focus on strengthening their secondary. Here are two players they should consider trading for to bolster their chances of success next season.
1. Tyrann Mathieu, Safety – New Orleans Saints
While Tyrann Mathieu may be 32 years old, the veteran safety still has the experience and playmaking ability the Vikings could use to solidify their defense. Despite his age and a down year in 2024, Mathieu’s leadership and big-play potential would be valuable assets for Minnesota. In the 2024 season, his Pro Football Focus grade dropped to a career-low 60.5, including his worst coverage grade (57.8) and pass-rushing mark (51.2). However, his experience as a 12-year veteran still carries weight. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores could be the ideal coach to squeeze more out of Mathieu, who has a history of making key plays in clutch moments. For instance, Saints head coach Darren Rizzi praised Mathieu’s crucial interception against the Falcons, underscoring his knack for stepping up in big moments.
Though Mathieu comes with a cap hit of $11.3 million for the upcoming season, his presence on the field could make a difference. If the Vikings are serious about making a Super Bowl run in 2025, adding a player like Mathieu to their defense could provide the veteran leadership and big-play ability they need.
2. Addressing the Secondary Needs
The Vikings’ priority this offseason should be to overhaul their secondary. With several key cornerbacks departing via free agency, Minnesota’s defense will need to bring in both youth and experience. Mathieu could be the first step in improving their defensive backfield, but a trade for a top-tier cornerback or another impactful safety would round out their efforts. The Vikings need a shutdown corner to complement their existing defense and provide much-needed stability in their pass coverage. With the right additions, the Vikings could transform their secondary into one of the league’s most formidable units.
