The Minnesota Vikings have surprised everyone with a strong 2-0 start to the season, securing victories against the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers. The team has shown skill on both offense and defense, with defensive coordinator Bryan Flores elevating player performance and quarterback Sam Darnold thriving in Kevin O’Connell’s system.
However, there are concerns about star player Camryn Bynum’s future with the team. KSTP’s Darren Wolfson noted that Bynum’s success under Flores has created a “tricky” contract situation. Wolfson previously suggested that if Bynum, ranked 14th among safeties by Pro Football Focus in 2023, continues to excel, he could be in line for a contract similar to that of Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney, which is a four-year, $67 million deal.
The willingness of the new Vikings management to invest heavily in a safety remains uncertain. Wolfson expressed hope for Bynum’s continued presence with the team, mentioning ongoing discussions about a contract extension, though he acknowledged the complexity of finalizing it before Week 1.
In other news, star wide receiver Justin Jefferson had to exit the second game with a quad injury. As the Vikings prepare for their Week 3 matchup against the Houston Texans, it looks promising that Jefferson could return. His practice participation this week will be key, and head coach Kevin O’Connell indicated that Jefferson was feeling good after Monday’s session.
Even a one-game absence for Jefferson would be significant for the Vikings, who currently rank eighth in the league with an average of 25.5 points per game. Darnold, now leading the offense, has been effective, with Minnesota’s passing game also sitting at eighth, averaging 229 yards per game. Jefferson has been Darnold’s primary target, recording eight receptions for 192 yards and two touchdowns, all team highs.
After Kirk Cousins’ departure to the Atlanta Falcons, there were initial doubts about Darnold’s impact. However, his developing rapport with Jefferson is proving fruitful early in the season. The focus now is on ensuring Jefferson is healthy enough to play, as his presence on the field significantly boosts the Vikings’ chances of victory against the Texans.
