In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the NFL, the Minnesota Vikings have pulled off a strategic coup by signing former Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Tyrek Funderburk to their practice squad. The undrafted rookie, who showed flashes of potential in his debut season, represents a low-risk, high-reward addition for an NFC North contender looking to bolster its secondary depth. This acquisition, announced on September 11, 2025, underscores Minnesota’s knack for identifying undervalued talent and could prove to be a masterstroke as they gear up for a competitive season.
Tyrek Funderburk’s journey to Minnesota is a tale of resilience. After going undrafted out of Appalachian State in 2024, Funderburk signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he was initially slated for a practice squad role. However, injuries to key players thrust him into action, and he appeared in 13 games, starting two, during his rookie campaign. His stat line—14 tackles, one pass defended, and one forced fumble—may not leap off the page, but his athleticism, length, and ability to hold his own in coverage caught the attention of scouts across the league.
Despite his contributions, Funderburk was waived by the Buccaneers two weeks before the 2025 regular season as part of their roster cuts. For a young player with just one year of NFL experience, being cut could have been a setback. Instead, Funderburk seized the opportunity to join a Vikings team with playoff aspirations, landing on their practice squad after a successful tryout on September 11, 2025.
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The Vikings’ decision to sign Funderburk comes at a critical juncture. With starting linebacker Blake Cashman and running back Ty Chandler placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring and knee injury, respectively, Minnesota needed to make roster adjustments. To fill the gaps left by promoting wide receiver Tim Jones and tight end Nick Vannett from the practice squad to the active roster, the Vikings added Funderburk and veteran linebacker Sione Takitaki to their practice squad. This move not only addresses immediate depth concerns but also aligns with Minnesota’s strategy of building a versatile and resilient roster.
Funderburk’s addition is particularly timely given the Vikings’ thin cornerback room. With Jeff Okudah in concussion protocol following the team’s season-opening win over the Chicago Bears, Minnesota’s secondary is stretched. While veteran Fabian Moreau is likely to be elevated if Okudah misses time, Funderburk provides valuable insurance as a practice squad player who can be called up for up to three games per season. His experience—162 defensive snaps and 125 special teams snaps with Tampa Bay in 2024—makes him a reliable option for a team facing a demanding schedule, including a Week 2 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.
One of the most exciting aspects of Funderburk’s move to Minnesota is the opportunity to work under defensive coordinator Brian Flores, a renowned defensive mind known for maximizing the potential of young players. Funderburk’s time with Tampa Bay allowed him to learn from another defensive guru, Todd Bowles, whose aggressive schemes helped him develop a knack for making plays in coverage and against the run. Now, under Flores’ tutelage, Funderburk has a chance to refine his skills further in a system that thrives on versatility and disciplined play.
Flores’ defense, which ranked among the NFL’s best in 2024, relies on creative blitz packages and tight coverage to disrupt opposing offenses. Funderburk’s athletic profile—highlighted by his ability to intercept four passes, two for touchdowns, during his final college season at Appalachian State—makes him a potential fit for Flores’ schemes. While his 2024 defensive stats with Tampa Bay (15 completions allowed on 16 targets) suggest room for growth, Flores’ track record of developing defensive backs bodes well for Funderburk’s future.
At 24 years old, Funderburk is a raw but promising talent. Standing at 6 feet and possessing a lanky frame, he has the physical tools to match up against NFL receivers. His college career, split between Richmond (2018-22) and Appalachian State (2023), showcased his ball skills, with four interceptions in his final season. Additionally, his experience on special teams—where he logged 125 snaps for the Buccaneers—adds another dimension to his value, especially for a Vikings team that may need to replace Ty Chandler as a kick returner.
While Funderburk is not expected to see immediate playing time, his familiarity with the Atlanta Falcons, a divisional rival of his former team, could prove invaluable in practice. As the Vikings prepare for their Week 2 showdown, Funderburk’s insights into Atlanta’s offensive tendencies could help Minnesota’s defense, led by Flores, scheme effectively against a potent opponent.
Labeling Funderburk a “$1 million secret weapon” may seem bold, but it reflects the potential upside of this signing. As an undrafted free agent, Funderburk’s rookie contract with Tampa Bay was cost-effective, likely in the range of a standard undrafted free agent deal (around $900,000-$1 million for a year). For the Vikings, securing a player with NFL experience, untapped potential, and a chip on his shoulder for a practice squad salary is a steal. If Funderburk can develop under Flores and capitalize on opportunities created by injuries or roster changes, he could emerge as a surprise contributor in Minnesota’s quest for an NFC North title.
The Vikings’ acquisition of Tyrek Funderburk may not dominate headlines, but it’s a move that reflects their commitment to depth and development. As Minnesota navigates a challenging 2025 schedule, including a two-week international trip in Weeks 4 and 5, having players like Funderburk on the practice squad ensures they are prepared for any scenario. Whether he remains a developmental piece or earns a spot on the active roster, Funderburk’s journey from Tampa Bay to Minnesota is a testament to his perseverance and the Vikings’ savvy roster-building.
For now, Funderburk will focus on soaking up knowledge from Flores and contributing in practice. But don’t be surprised if this “secret weapon” makes his presence felt when the Vikings need him most.