Vikings Young Safety Finds Greener Pastures

Roll the credits, the movie is over for multiple former Minnesota Vikings turned free agents who are agreeing to terms on new contracts with other teams on Monday. It became pretty clear over the last month that the Vikings were unlikely to bring back Cam Bynum, especially after handing safety Theo Jackson a new contract last week.

Reports leading up to free agency suggested that Minnesota had interest in retaining some of their free agent defensive backs. But even then, it seemed more likely Byron Murphy Jr. would be that returning piece, not Bynum. that was suggested as more likely than Cam Bynum though.

Cam Bynum leaves Minnesota Vikings for Indianapolis Colts

Just hours into the “legal tampering” or “negotiating” period, Cam Bynum’s exit out of Minnesota became unofficially official when he struck a deal with the Indianapolis Colts worth four years, $60 million.

Bynum’s new $60 million deal is a record for the Indianapolis Colts, under general manager Chris Ballard. The former MN Vikings celebration coordinator will will now play safety and coordinate dance celebrations for Colts second year head coach Shane Steichen and new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.

A fourth round draft pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, the former Cal Bears product earned a full-time starting role during his second season. Bynum played in 14 games as a rookie and drew three starts. In the three years since he has started all 51 games for Minnesota.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Free Agency Signings – 2025

2024 was a special year for the 26-year-old 2021 125th overall round pick. While he became synonymous with the exciting defensive celebrations, his play on the field spoke volumes as well. His three interceptions were a career-high, and he picked up a pair of fumble recoveries as well.

The 96 tackles Bynum posted in 2024 were a far cry from the 137 he racked up in 2023. Some of that certainly could have been situational or schematic related, but there were stretches where his ability to wrap up looked questionable.

On a four-year deal with the Colts, Bynum will make roughly ten times more than he did on his rookie deal with the MN Vikings. That’s a nice little raise for a mid-20’s safety just entering his prime.

Vikings turn over at least one safety position

With Cam Bynum no longer in the fold, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores will have a new starter next season. Theo Jackson will join Josh Metellus at the back end of the defense. Harrison Smith has also not yet made a decision for his future.

Jackson was a sixth round pick in 2022 and has played in 43 games for Minnesota the past three seasons. He appeared in all 17 during 2024 and recorded his first career interception. Jackson checks in at 6’1″ and just under 200 pounds. He should be expected to assume Bynum’s role on the defense which allows for Metellus to remain flexible.

Related: Sam Darnold Unofficially Leaving Minnesota

Flores is back as the Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator, and he will be looking to continue improvements for his unit. The addition of interior talent could help to mitigate the turnover that is taking place in the secondary. It remains to be seen how well the transition from Bynum will go, but the Vikings have a strong infrastructure and developmental success that should aid in the process.