The Minnesota Vikings have made a strategic move in their quest to strengthen their roster, bringing in former New York Giants draft pick Gervarrius Owens. Owens, selected as the 254th overall pick in the 2023 draft, narrowly missed the title of Mr. Irrelevant. His introduction to the Vikings’ training camp roster adds an intriguing layer to an already competitive setup.
Owens, who had a brief stint with the Tennessee Titans in 2024, recorded a tackle and a fumble recovery over five games, including three appearances with the Giants during his rookie season. Now, he faces the daunting challenge of securing a spot on the Vikings’ 53-man roster amid fierce competition.
The Vikings boast a strong lineup at the safety position with veterans Harrison Smith and Josh Metellus, the latter recently securing a lucrative four-year, $36 million contract. Owens, who also spent time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason, will vie for a backup position. He must surpass several contenders, including Theo Jackson, who is poised to fill Camryn Bynum’s role following his move to the Indianapolis Colts, as well as Jay Ward and rookie UDFA Mishael Powell. The versatile Tavierre Thomas, listed as a defensive back, could also complicate the roster decisions with his ability to adapt to multiple roles.
Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores faces critical decisions regarding personnel deployment this season. Last year, Flores frequently utilized three-safety sets, a strategy that may evolve without Bynum. Questions linger on whether the Vikings will rely on cornerbacks like Byron Murphy and Isaiah Rodgers or adopt more dime packages featuring six defensive backs, a tactic Flores employed effectively in 2024.
In a corresponding roster move, the Vikings waived Max Tooley, a 2024 UDFA and outside linebacker known more for his distinctive appearance than his on-field contributions. Tooley, sporting a notable mustache and mullet, has spent time with the Houston Texans and was picked up by the Vikings after his release last September. Despite his experience, Tooley faced an uphill battle in a crowded linebacker room that includes starters Blake Cashman and Ivan Pace Jr., along with veteran reserves Brian Asomoah II and Eric Wilson.
Owens will need to bring his A-game to climb the depth chart and secure his place on the Vikings’ roster. As the battle heats up in training camp, all eyes will be on how the new addition will integrate into a defense looking to solidify its ranks ahead of the upcoming season.
