The Minnesota Vikings caught multiple teams off guard during the 2024 NFL season, achieving 14 wins and earning a playoff spot. One of the bright spots on the team was safety Josh Metellus, who played multiple roles on defense last season.
Many Vikings fans were left scratching their heads when Minnesota signed Metellus to a two-year extension worth $8 million. However, it was clear that defensive coordinator Brian Flores had a big plan for the defender and saw potential in his growth.
In 2023 and 2024, Metellus played nearly 90 percent of the team's defensive snaps as well as 45 percent of special teams plays. He is an important part of the defense and fans have grown to appreciate his position versatility and development.
Is Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus still underappreciated?
Recently, Gennaro Filice of NFL.com published an article naming the most underappreciated player on each team in the league. For the Minnesota Vikings, his choice of Josh Metellus is a bit eyebrow-raising.
While Metellus is deserving of the attention, his work over the last two seasons has made him a player that Vikings fans have learned to appreciate and respect. Choosing him might be the author's way of saying he deserves more appreciation by those who aren't aware of his recent accomplishments, but the extension and trust Minnesota has put in the safety show that the team definitely doesn't underappreciate the 27-year-old defensive back.
Many fans also learned that edge rushers Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard are more than capable of picking up the production of the players who left in free agency, making them poor choices for the honor as well.
When considering underappreciated players, Blake Cashman and Ivan Pace Jr. should be considered. Minnesota's interior linebackers play a huge role in the defense, and when not in the lineup, the team looked different last season.
Nationally, several Minnesota Vikings players have received attention for their play. Justin Jefferson, Christian Darrisaw, Brian O'Neill, T.J. Hockenson, Jordan Addison, Harrison Smith and others are among those who have been recognized for their high levels of play.
Josh Metellus might not be as appreciated outside of the Minnesota fan base, those who pay attention to the league and watch Vikings' games know how much he means to the defense and understands that he gives the team the ability to keep opposing defenses guessing.