James Pierre

Career StatsF

Year	Team	GP	INT	PD	Tkl
Career		95	4	22	147
2025		14	1	11	30
2024		15	1	3	23
2023		16

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Vikings landed a solid value play in James Pierre's two-year, $8.5M deal, earning a B- CVI that reflects smart depth acquisition at a reasonable price point. At $4.3M annually, Minnesota is paying appropriate market rate for a proven depth piece at cornerback — not expecting Pierre to be a shutdown corner, but banking on his ability to provide reliable coverage when called upon. The 29-year-old Pierre sits in that sweet spot where he's experienced enough to handle increased responsibilities without the steep decline that often hits defensive backs in their early thirties. The contract structure works in Minnesota's favor with $3.7M guaranteed, giving them flexibility to move on after year one if Pierre's performance drops off while avoiding significant dead money risk. This signing represents exactly what contending teams should do — address depth needs without breaking the bank, ensuring they have capable veterans who can step up when injuries inevitably hit the secondary.

Performance Analysis

James Pierre receives an F grade as a veteran Steelers cornerback who has been a consistent special teams contributor and depth corner for six seasons. His 147 tackles, four interceptions, and 22 passes defended across 95 games show a player who has gotten regular playing time without ever emerging as a true starter. The five forced fumbles is an impressive number that speaks to his ball-disruption skills, even if the overall defensive production has been modest. Pierre played 14-17 games in every season from 2020-2025, giving Pittsburgh reliable depth and special teams coverage. Now with the Vikings, he brings a veteran presence and willingness to play any role asked, though the F grade reflects his below-replacement-level performance when pressed into extended defensive duty.

Fan Sentiment

The Vikings land a serviceable veteran cornerback in a team-friendly, low-risk signing. Multiple headlines praise the move, with one outlet calling it an "absolute steal" given the contract structure. Pierre's Pittsburgh pedigree offers familiarity with a physical, press-heavy scheme that fits Minnesota's defensive identity. Fans are cautiously optimistic, debating whether Pierre can hold down a starting spot or remains a depth piece. Expect Pierre to compete for a rotational role with upside if injuries strike the cornerback room.