4 players that must step up for the Vikings in the 2022 season

Camryn Bynum – S

The future of the secondary is very much a question mark. We have no idea who is going to replace Patrick Peterson and Harrison Smith, especially if Cameron Dantzler does not take the step that he needs to take this season.

Harrison Smith has a potential out in his contract after this season which would result in an $11 million dead cap hit but that might be the best route to take. If not, he will be under contract until 2026 with a cap hit over $20 million.

If the Vikings want to get ahead of that problem, they would be smart to see more from Camryn Bynum while Lewis Cine gets some reps in rotational spots this season. While I do think Cine is the better player and probably will get the majority of those snaps, it would make sense to see more from Bynum so the team knows what to expect heading into 2023.

Bynum had some highlights in limited time as a starter last season and there was plenty to like about his transition to safety. If he can continue to improve in that area, he will be an intriguing piece for the future.

The Vikings will have some serious questions to answer when they build the roster after the upcoming season. Safety is another replaceable position. If Cine is solid as a rookie and the Vikings are comfortable with him as the leader moving forward, then sticking with Bynum as a cheaper counterpart is worth a look.

Bynum has the flexibility to play in the slot after spending his college career as a cornerback. Getting him some looks around the defense is a good opportunity to build the roster for the future this season.