The Minnesota Vikings are entering a new era at quarterback and have been actively retooling their roster to support that transition. In addition to strengthening other positions, the team is reportedly eyeing an intriguing option at cornerback in free agency from the Cincinnati Bengals.
Although the Vikings recently re-signed Byron Murphy, there remain significant gaps in their secondary. According to Bleacher Report’s Brad Gagnon, the Vikings could fill that void by acquiring Hilton, a former undrafted free agent who launched his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Gagnon noted that he is considered one of the best slot cover men over the past decade, still has plenty to offer given his wealth of experience. He even suggested that a move to safety could help revitalize Hilton’s career, as his coverage skills may have waned slightly, but his instincts, timing, and tenacity remain intact.
At 31, Hilton is seen as being past his prime in a position where supply-and-demand in free agency isn’t fierce, making him an attractive, cost-effective option.
Hilton’s production with the Bengals in 2024 was impressive—recording 73 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five pass deflections, and an interception. His tackles were the second-highest of his career, and his stops for loss tied a personal best.
The potential fit for Hilton seems even more appealing when considering the Vikings’ aggressive defensive scheme under coordinator Brian Flores, as the team blitzed at the highest rate in the NFL last season.
In addition to Hilton, the Vikings are also looking to address other areas in their secondary. With the return of Mekhi Blackmon, who was poised to start before an ACL injury sidelined him, and the comeback of young Dwight McGlothern alongside Murphy, the overall depth remains a concern. Moreover, free agent Isaiah Rodgers, fresh off a Super Bowl-winning season with the Philadelphia Eagles and currently on a two-year, $11 million deal, is another target that could complement the unit.
Head coach O’Connell and his staff have emphasized the need for an experienced addition to shore up the cornerback depth, especially since their draft capital may only provide limited help in that area. O’Connell even mentioned the possibility of adding a player like Jeff Okudah as a boundary corner in nickel defense to further bolster their lineup.
Ultimately, with the Vikings’ new quarterback era underway and several uncertainties in the secondary, a veteran presence like Mike Hilton could provide the stability and versatility needed.
Hilton’s blend of blitzing ability and savvy defensive play might be exactly what the Vikings need to secure their new identity on defense while keeping the roster competitive as the season unfolds.
Leave a Reply