Vikings Extend Safety Josh Metellus with $36M, 3-Year Deal

The Minnesota Vikings have signed safety Josh Metellus to a three-year, $36 million contract extension, with the potential to reach $42 million including incentives, and $25 million guaranteed. Metellus, a sixth-round pick in 2020, has become a key defensive player for the Vikings, starting 27 of 34 games over the past two seasons and recording significant stats including 219 tackles and multiple interceptions. The deal prevents Metellus from entering free agency after the 2025 season and represents a substantial commitment by the Vikings, reflecting his importance to the team's defense. Despite a minor ankle injury that sidelined him from a recent practice, Metellus is expected to return soon and continue contributing as a versatile defender often playing safety, box linebacker, and slot cornerback roles. The contract places Metellus among the top-paid safeties in the NFL, tied in average salary with notable players like Cleveland's Grant Delpit and Arizona's Jalen Thompson. This extension signals the Vikings' confidence in Metellus as a foundational defensive player moving forward.