The Minnesota Vikings have taken a crucial step in shaping their secondary for the future, securing a highly talented star with a new three-year contract. His agency, Equity Sports, confirmed the agreement on Thursday, revealing that the deal is worth $12.615 million and keeps him under contract through the 2027 season. The first two years of the contract are fully guaranteed, signaling the Vikings’ confidence in his growing role.
Originally drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Jackson found his way to Minnesota after being plucked from Tennessee’s practice squad. Over the past three seasons, he has developed into a key depth piece and a standout contributor on special teams, earning the trust of the coaching staff.
His return comes at a pivotal moment for the Vikings, as uncertainty looms over both starting safety positions. Veteran Harrison Smith, now 36, has yet to decide if he will continue playing, while Cam Bynum is set to hit free agency and could command a contract Minnesota may be unwilling to match. If Bynum departs, Jackson could be in line for an expanded role in the defense.
Jackson played in all 17 regular-season games in 2024, proving his value in critical moments. His game-sealing interception against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 16 helped extend the Vikings’ winning streak to eight games—a performance that came in Smith’s absence due to injury.
While Josh Metellus remains another potential option to step into a starting safety role, defensive coordinator Brian Flores has utilized him more as a versatile hybrid player, often lining him up as an outside linebacker rather than a traditional safety. That schematic preference could further clear the path for Jackson to see increased snaps in the defensive backfield next season.
With Minnesota’s safety situation in flux, Jackson’s re-signing provides stability, but all eyes remain on Smith’s decision and Bynum’s contract negotiations as the Vikings prepare for the offseason.
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