Vikings Host Cornerback Jeff Okudah for Free Agent Visit

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings are hosting free agent cornerback Jeff Okudah for a visit on Monday, the team announced.

Okudah, 26, was selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions but has faced a series of injuries throughout his career. After spending the 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons, he signed a one-year contract with the Houston Texans last offseason. However, a quad injury limited him to just six games in 2024, during which he recorded nine total tackles and one pass defended.

In his career, Okudah has played in 44 games with 31 starts across the Lions, Falcons, and Texans, amassing a total of 14 passes defended and two interceptions. His performance has been impacted by injuries, beginning with a hamstring issue in his rookie season and a ruptured Achilles tendon that hindered his sophomore year.

Okudah earned All-American honors during his single season at Ohio State, which brought him to the forefront of the NFL Draft. He initially signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $33.5 million, including a substantial signing bonus of nearly $22 million. The Lions opted not to exercise the fifth-year option on his deal, leading to his trade to the Falcons in April 2023.

Following a lackluster season with Houston, where he was placed on injured reserve after Week 1, Okudah struggled to make an impact upon his return, receiving a low rating on Pro Football Focus.

The Vikings, who have already added cornerbacks Isaiah Rodgers and Tavierre Thomas to their roster, are looking to bolster their defensive backfield. This potential addition may suggest a shift away from their more experienced but aging cornerbacks, including Stephon Gilmore and Shaquill Griffin.

Okudah’s career thus far has been marked by challenges, but he continues to seek a fresh start in Minnesota. The Vikings’ interest in Okudah reflects their commitment to improving their defense following a tumultuous previous season.

Updates on Okudah’s visit and potential signing with the Vikings will be made available as news develops.