Josh Metellus Limiting OTA Activity Amid Contract Uncertainty
Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus, a cornerstone of defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme over the past two seasons, has recently taken on a reduced role during the team’s Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Interestingly, there’s been no sign of an injury — which raises eyebrows about the reason behind his limited involvement.
Most observers believe his decreased workload is tied to his contract status. Metellus is entering the final year of the deal he signed before the 2023 season. That contract proved to be an exceptional bargain for the Vikings, especially after Metellus transitioned from special teams standout to a key starter who shined in a versatile, full-time defensive role. Despite reported extension negotiations between him and the team this offseason, no agreement has been finalized. This has led many to speculate that Metellus is opting for a strategic “hold-in.”
Historically, NFL players unsatisfied with their contracts would engage in “holdouts,” choosing not to report to offseason programs or training camp. However, the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) has imposed significant financial penalties for skipping mandatory sessions — effectively discouraging holdouts during training camp. OTAs, on the other hand, are considered voluntary, allowing players more flexibility. Many players now choose to show up but limit their physical participation — a softer alternative known as a “hold-in.” This allows players to stay engaged with their teams and qualify for offseason bonuses, all while reducing their injury risk ahead of a potential new deal.
Ben Goessling of the Star Tribune commented on this topic in a recent episode of the “Access Vikings” podcast, noting:
“I think there’s interest from both sides in continuing that relationship and that he continues to be an important piece of the defense in Minnesota, but as of now, that contract is not done and I don’t think there’s really much in terms of guaranteed money for him at this point.”
Goessling highlighted similar situations with past Vikings stars like Danielle Hunter and T.J. Hockenson, both of whom used the hold-in strategy while negotiating extensions.
“He may be saying, ‘I’m going to be here so I can get my workout bonus, but I’m going to mitigate some of what I do so that I’m not putting myself at more risk when I don’t have a guaranteed contract going forward beyond this year.’”
While there’s a remote possibility Metellus is returning from a minor injury, no credible sources have pointed to that being the case. The more straightforward explanation — Occam’s Razor — suggests contract considerations are likely behind his current practice approach.
Metellus’ current contract — a two-year, $8 million extension — was agreed upon when he was primarily a special teams contributor. But his breakout performance in 2023 saw him fill up the stat sheet and earn a reputation as a defensive Swiss Army knife. That year, he became a full-time starter under Flores and consistently showcased his ability to line up anywhere on the field — from safety to linebacker to slot corner.
Although his 2024 production wasn’t quite as flashy, Metellus maintained a high level of play and remained a critical every-down presence. His consistency, adaptability, and football intelligence made him indispensable to Minnesota’s defense.
There’s no major concern that a deal won’t eventually get done. Metellus, a 27-year-old former sixth-round pick out of Michigan (2020), fits the mold of a player the Vikings typically look to retain. The front office has a pattern of rewarding players who grow into key roles, as seen with recent extensions like that of linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel earlier this offseason.
In fact, Metellus’ importance to the team has only grown. With safety Camryn Bynum departing and long-time veteran Harrison Smith potentially retiring after the upcoming season, the Vikings are in need of continuity and leadership in the secondary. Metellus, with his proven reliability and respected presence in the locker room, is well-positioned to step further into that void.
All signs point toward a mutual desire to find a resolution — and if history is any indicator, it’s only a matter of time before the Vikings and Metellus agree to terms that reflect his value to the team.
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