Theo Jackson could be the Vikings' X-factor in 2025, stepping into Cam Bynum's safety role as Flores' defense leans on a versatile back end. Jackson has prepared as the primary backup to Josh Metellus, Cam Bynum, and Harrison Smith, and now gets a true chance to translate that prep into game-ready value.

A 2022 sixth-rounder, Jackson has earned praise for preparation and reliability. If he can deliver the same production Bynum provided, Minnesota's defense could keep producing at an elite level, preserving aggressive blitzing while maintaining coverage integrity.