OFFICIAL: Vikings Extend Safety Josh Metellus Beyond 2032 with a Shocking Pay Rise
In a move that has sent ripples of surprise and excitement through the NFL, the Minnesota Vikings have reportedly locked up versatile safety Josh Metellus with a long-term contract extension that will keep him in purple and gold well beyond the current decade, stretching into the 2032 season. The deal, which includes a “shocking” pay rise, signifies the organization’s immense confidence in Metellus’s multifaceted contributions and his burgeoning leadership.
While official financial details are still emerging, early reports suggest that Metellus’s new contract represents a significant leap from his previous two-year, $8 million extension signed in 2023. This remarkable commitment, spanning nearly a decade, firmly places him among the league’s highest-paid safeties, a testament to his evolution from a 2020 sixth-round pick to a defensive linchpin.
Metellus has consistently outplayed expectations since entering the league, steadily increasing his snap count and impact. Known for his “Swiss Army Knife” versatility, he has become indispensable to Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores’s scheme, excelling in various roles from deep safety to slot defender to even blitzing off the edge. His ability to stop the run, cover tight ends, and contribute significantly on special teams has made him one of the most dynamic players on the Vikings’ roster.
The shocking aspect of the pay rise isn’t just the sheer amount but the longevity. Extending a player, especially a safety, for such an extended period into 2032 is a rare occurrence in the NFL’s current landscape of year-to-year evaluations. It signals that General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and Head Coach Kevin O’Connell view Metellus as a foundational piece for the future, not just a short-term asset.
This extension also sends a powerful message to the locker room: hard work and consistent performance will be rewarded. Metellus’s journey from a late-round draft pick who primarily contributed on special teams to a highly paid, long-term defensive anchor is an inspiring narrative. It reinforces the Vikings’ commitment to developing their own talent and prioritizing players who embody the team’s culture and work ethic.
As the Vikings continue to build a championship contender, securing key defensive players like Metellus for the foreseeable future is paramount. This long-term investment ensures continuity in a critical position and provides financial stability for a player who has undeniably earned every penny. The “shocking” pay rise beyond 2032 solidifies Josh Metellus’s place not just as a vital player, but as a true Viking for years to come.
