When the Minnesota Vikings announced a two-year extension worth $8 million for safety Josh Metellus in 2023, many fans were confused about the plans the team would have for him in their defense.
The 27-year-old defensive back would prove to earn that extension. Metellus went from playing 258 defensive snaps in 2022 to being on the field for 1,065 in 2023 and 991 in 2024, playing multiple positions in Brian Flores' defense.
Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus could be in line for an extension this offseason
The Minnesota Vikings are in an interesting spot with Josh Metellus this offseason. There is an out in his deal that could allow the team and the safety to part ways with just $1 million in dead cap space, but that is highly unlikely.
If Josh Metellus plays 2025 on his current deal, he will count for approximately $6.5 million against the salary cap. Minnesota could lock down their versatile young defender for a longer time with a contract extension.
On Friday's StribSports Daily Delivery podcast episode, Ben Goessling discussed the contract situation involving Josh Metellus. He believes that the safety outplayed the incentives in his contract and could be in line for an extension that would see him get a raise.
Considering the situation the Vikings have at safety this year, the team can't afford to put themselves in a position to lose another high-quality player at the position soon. They already need to find a way to replace the production of Camryn Bynum and prepare for the eventual retirement of Harrison Smith, making the future of Minnesota's safeties questionable at best.
The Minnesota Vikings have been aggressive in free agency this offseason, but haven't done much to improve at safety. The team has signed Theo Jackson to an extension and signed Bubba Bolden, but neither of those moves are likely to result in a long-time answer at safety.
Even with Harrison Smith and Josh Metellus returning, many experts are choosing a safety for the Vikings in the first round of their mock drafts. That's completely understandable since Minnesota reinforced their lines, added cornerbacks, and solidified their running back situation during free agency.
Don't be shocked if something is worked out to keep Josh Metellus with the Minnesota Vikings for years beyond 2025. A contract extension makes a lot of sense for both sides and is something that seems like it is inevitable.