Zemaiah Vaughn

Zemaiah Vaughn enters Year 2 as a developing defensive back for the Minnesota Vikings at age 24, ranked #766 at the position in Verdict’s dynasty score (5.0). His 2025 profile shows modest usage, with 75 defensive snaps logged across 17 games.

Vaughn operates in the Vikings’ 3-4 defense with Brian Flores’ aggressive approach, including heavy blitz packages and man-heavy coverage. His 75 defensive snaps show modest usage, but Verdict’s trade-value model suggests room for growth given 2025’s ascending dynasty score. A stable floor exists in the form of Brian Flores’ 3-4 system, where defensive backs contribute to team defense with 30% or greater blitz rates.

No injury data exists for Vaughn. However, his defensive back role carries a moderate injury risk due to contact exposure and blitz involvement.

Vaughn operates in a depth chart with limited competition, but the Vikings’ defensive back room has shown recent turnover with Camryn Bynum, Harrison Hand, and Duke Shelley’s respective exits and re-signings. Wes Phillips’ McVay/Rams-tree offense prioritizes weapons in space, which may limit defensive back usage, but Kevin O’Connell’s aggressive approach could still yield more snaps for Vaughn.

Brian Flores’ 3-4 system prioritizes athletic, ball-hawking defensive backs in zone-heavy coverage, but his aggressive blitz packages create opportunities for cornerbacks and safeties alike. Vaughn’s athletic profile and learning curve in Year 2 align with these needs, driving a DB2 ceiling.

Unknown Limited data on Vaughn’s long-term role and snap share trajectory, given 75 defensive snaps across 17 games in 2025.

Ceiling tracks near the 2025 dynasty score of 5.0, given a stable floor in the form of Brian Flores’ 3-4 system. Growth potential exists in the form of increased defensive back usage and blitz involvement, but Verdict’s limited data on Vaughn’s snap share trajectory prevents a clear projection.