5 free agents the Vikings should avoid in 2024
By Adam Carlson
Free agent for the Vikings to avoid No. 4
Stephon Gilmore, cornerback
One of the top three free agent cornerbacks, Stephon Gilmore is bound to get a lot of attention this offseason. At the moment, Byron Murphy is the veteran corner on the roster surrounded by younger talent and having another experienced defender could be beneficial.
Gilmore will be 34 years old this year, which isn't a big red flag in today's NFL. He has been a consistent defender for the past three seasons and should be a starter wherever he signs this offseason, or if he returns to Dallas.
The bad part about going after Gilmore is that it could stunt the development of the young players Minnesota has already invested in. Guys like Akayleb Evans, Mekhi Blackmon, Andrew Booth Jr. and NaJee Thompson are all learning and growing.
Rather than spending a lot on a veteran, expect the Minnesota Vikings to keep Murphy and continue developing young players in the meantime. Unless they can get a huge bargain, a player like Stephon Gilmore might not be a great option.