8 realistic free agents the Vikings could sign in 2023

Ogbonnia Okoronkwo – Edge

2022 Team: Houston Texans

There’s a legitimate possibility that the Vikings will choose to release Za’Darius Smith this offseason, as cutting him would create more than $13.5 million in cap space. If Minnesota does this, they’re going to need to add some more pass-rushing help this offseason.

Ogbonnia Okoronkwo is a guy that the Vikings probably wouldn’t have to break the bank for, but he could potentially make a big impact as a pass rusher.

In his fourth NFL season, Okoronkwo got the opportunity to start the first eight games of his career in 2022, and he made the most of his opportunities. In his eight starts last season, the 27-year-old pass rusher racked up 25 tackles (seven for a loss), 11 pressures, seven quarterback hits, five sacks, and one forced fumble.

Cameron Sutton – CB

2022 Team: Pittsburgh Steelers

In his first season as the team’s defensive coordinator, Brian Flores is going to need Minnesota’s cornerbacks to perform much better than they did in 2022. The Vikings ranked 31st in the NFL in passing yards allowed last season, and that is something that absolutely has to improve in 2023.

Someone Flores should be familiar with after spending the 2022 campaign with the Pittsburgh Steelers is Cameron Sutton. In two of the last three seasons, Sutton’s PFF grade has ranked among the top 30 cornerbacks in the NFL.

With Chandon Sullivan not expected to return in 2023, Sutton’s versatility to play well regardless of whether he lines up on the outside or in the slot is something that should likely intrigue Minnesota too.