Jeff Okudah eyes breakout season with Minnesota Vikings
Vikings fans, take note – the former no. 3 overall pick enters the 2025 season with a new team, a new system and renewed purpose.
Speaking at Vikings mandatory minicamp on June 11, Okudah explained why he’s optimistic about this new chapter.
“What excited me most about joining Brian Flores’ defense [was] just watching the tape from last year and seeing the things that they’ve been able to accomplish in the scheme,” he said. “Just seeing how players can come in here and flourish and play to their strengths.”
A career still searching for stability
Okudah’s NFL journey has been far from easy. Drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2020, he struggled with injuries, including a torn Achilles in 2021. He was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2023, where he made nine starts. Then in 2024, he joined the Houston Texans but saw limited action due to injury.
Now in Minnesota, he sees a real opportunity to get back on track. Therefore, this season may be the most important of his career.
“I think it’s always in a player’s best interest to find a scheme that fits what they do the best,” he said. “That’s why I feel like I’ve got a lot of untapped potential.”
Okudah said he holds himself to high standards: “not just for me, but for my teammates.” Moreover, he arrives with the intention to contribute, not just compete.
Focusing on the present, not the past
When asked if past teams failed to bring out his best, Okudah stayed grounded. Instead of blaming others, he chose to focus on growth.
“I don’t necessarily think about it like that,” he said. “I try to operate in a mentality that just looks forward and not behind. Just control what I control.”
As a result, his attitude could serve him well in Brian Flores’ defense. The scheme is known for blitzes, disguise and playing to players’ strengths – exactly what Okudah needs.
How the Jeff Okudah–Vikings fit benefits from a strong front
Okudah is especially excited about Minnesota’s defensive line. In his view, a strong front makes everyone better.
“That whole front [has] some real guys out there… guys that can play football, rush the quarterback,” he said.
He highlighted linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel’s instincts and playmaking.
“Watching Gink on tape… he could’ve had five, six interceptions. He’s a baller.”
According to a Vikings.com analysis, the team’s defense ranked among the league leaders in sacks, takeaways and interceptions in 2024, thanks to Brian Flores’ aggressive scheme. Consequently, Okudah believes the pressure up front will give defensive backs more freedom to make plays
Secondary motto: Earn your keep
The Vikings’ secondary is also going through a transition. Despite veteran departures, Okudah sees potential.
“The motto is just… go out there and earn your keep every single day,” he said. “We have a lot of guys that complement each other really well.”
In addition, he sees real value in the leadership of veteran safety Harrison Smith.
“It’s pretty cool to play with a guy that has that much experience,” Okudah said. “You can really lean on someone like that for guidance.”
Jeff Okudah–Vikings outlook: A new chapter in 2025
Okudah isn’t calling this a comeback. He’s calling it a clean slate. With a defensive system built to elevate talent, and teammates who push him daily, he finally has the pieces to succeed.
Ultimately, the 2025 NFL season may be his best chance yet to show why he was a top-three pick. If things click, Jeff Okudah could become a key part of the Minnesota Vikings defense this year.
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