The Minnesota Vikings, facing several key veteran defensive players with expiring contracts, are looking to strengthen their roster for the 2025 season. While they secured a two-year extension with nose tackle Harrison Phillips in September, they still have defensive starters such as Jerry Tillery and Jonathan Bullard on one-year contracts. Given this uncertainty, Bleacher Report’s scouting department predicts that the Vikings will target Levi Onwuzurike, the defensive tackle for the NFC North rival Detroit Lions, in the upcoming free agency.
Onwuzurike, a former second-round pick, has had a slow start to his career but is now showing significant improvement in his contract year. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), he has accumulated 22 pressures on 204 pass-rush snaps through Week 8 and has been solid against the run. His performance this season, including a dominant game against the Titans in Week 8, has put him on the radar of teams looking to bolster their defensive lines.
The Vikings, who have defensive starters at all three levels with contracts expiring, could look to add Onwuzurike to their defensive line. Key players, including their top three cornerbacks, are all set to hit free agency soon, leaving a gap for fresh talent. While linebacker Blake Cashman and Ivan Pace Jr. are under contract through 2025, Pace is likely to receive an extension given his strong play and affordable contract.
Onwuzurike has become an essential part of Detroit’s defensive line rotation, and his strong play in 2023, highlighted by his game-changing performance against Tennessee, only enhances his value. In that Week 8 win, he recorded five pressures, two QB hits, and two run stuffs in just 44 snaps, showcasing his disruptive ability. This type of performance could make him a prime target for a team like the Vikings looking to invest in young talent.
The Vikings have the cap space to make a move in 2025, and the potential of acquiring Onwuzurike from a division rival like the Lions could be an attractive option. However, it remains to be seen whether Detroit will allow the former No. 41 overall pick to walk away in free agency. If they do, Minnesota could be well-positioned to make a competitive offer and add a rising star to their defensive front
