Vikings’ $42 million star makes an announcement about his future.

Four of the Minnesota Vikings’ secondary starters are classified among the top 100 eligible free agents by Pro Football Focus (PFF) this offseason, indicating that the Vikings will face some difficult decisions.

Cam Bynum, the free safety, is at the top of the pack.

Bynum, the 31st best free agent in 2025, is projected to command a competitive market. PFF predicted Bynum will sign a three-year contract worth $42.8 million.

Despite “mutual interest” in an extension dating back to last summer, no deal looks on the horizon with less than two months until free agency begins.

Bynum addressed his future in a recent fan meet-and-greet that signals there hasn’t been much progress.

“I’m not sure what it’s looking like, but I’m praying I’m back here,” Bynum told FOX 9 on January 22. “I’ve loved everything about my four years here. Being a Vikings is the best.” I’m hoping it works out, and I believe God will place me exactly where I need to be.

Bynum, a 2021 fourth-round pick, is coming off two successful seasons under defensive coordinator Brian Flores. He had 233 tackles, five interceptions, 19 passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

However, with needs at other positions, the Vikings may not prioritize safety enough to pay Bynum a top-tier salary.

Cornerback Byron Murphy, Jr., ranked 33rd by PFF, is another starting cornerback on the Vikings’ pending free agent list. Harrison Smith and Stephon Gilmore also made the list, ranking 54th and 67th, respectively.

Minnesota may explore signing Murphy over Bynum because cornerback is a higher priority. Murphy is expected to sign a three-year, $52 million agreement.

Spending more than $100 million on two defensive backs would limit the Vikings’ ability to strengthen other parts of the squad, making the decision look to be between Bynum and Murphy, rather than both.

However, if Smith retires, the Vikings may rationalize re-signing Bynum.

There is undoubtedly a price point at which Minnesota would prefer to re-sign Bynum, but given previous contract negotiations that fell through, there is a clear difference on both sides as free agency approaches.