Story by
MN Vikings Kickoff Tampering Period with New CB
- Story by
- MN Vikings Kickoff Tampering Period with New CB
Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Less than one hour into the legal tampering window, Rob Brzezinski has the Minnesota Vikings on the board. With multiple needs on the roster, they opted to target defense first.
Brian Flores is back to lead the defensive side of the ball. He'll be more pleased with the organizational structure this season as well. Although he had plenty of say when it came to construction last year, the Vikings started the season with just three cornerbacks .
Advertisement
They need to address depth there for 2026, and started in earnest by grabbing former Pittsburgh Steeler James Pierre .
Related Headlines
James Pierre to sign with Minnesota Vikings
After spending the first six seasons of his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, James Pierre is joining the Minnesota Vikings. Initially an undrafted free agent, he's cashing in on a two-year deal.
Vikings have agreed to terms with CB James Pierre on a two-year, $8.5 million deal with $3.7 million guaranteed, per his agent Toney Scott. Pierre gets a $2.5 million signing bonus. pic.twitter.com/VcZnVJTxH2
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) March 9, 2026
Over the course of his career Pierre has made $6.78 million . Last season he made $1.17 million. With $3.7 million guaranteed, and an average annual value of $4.25 million, it's a nice little boost for him.
Pierre has been consistent over the course of his career, playing at least 14 games every season . Last year he started a career high five games for Pittsburgh. He picked off one pass, the fourth of his career. His 11 passes defensed were a career high, and he accumulated 30 tackles.
James Pierre picks off Lamar
PITvsBAL on CBS/Paramount+ https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/3qAvdHjLFF— NFL (@NFL) December 7, 2025
At 6'2″ and 185 pounds, Pierre has solid size for a cornerback. He will be working alongside Byron Muphy Jr. (who restructured his deal ) and Isaiah Rodgers . Pierre fills the Jeff Okudah role, and should be expected to provide substantially more value.
Advertisement
MN Vikings cornerback room takes shape
Jeff Okudah couldn't stay healthy last season and played just six games for the Minnesota Vikings. That meant Fabian Moreau needed to be elevated from the practice squad, and relied upon as more than a rotational veteran.
Minnesota has just Dwight McGlothern and Zemaiah Vaughn on the roster to round out the room. While the five person group is better positioned with Pierre than it was last year, there's still room for rookie additions.
The Vikings have been tied to different first round talents in some mock drafts . It's possible they instead look to add someone in the middle rounds after targeting Pierre in free agency.
Advertisement
As the roster continues to take shape, we will get a better idea as to where Rob Brzezinski wants to use immediate capital, and what could be left for the draft.
Related Headlines
