Winfield became an unrestricted free agent in 2004 and was considered by many analysts to be the top free agent cornerback on the market. He was heavily pursued by multiple teams, including the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans, and Minnesota Vikings. On March 4, 2004, it was reported that the New York Jets and Winfield has agreed, in principle, to a six-year, $30 million contract with $10 million guaranteed. Winfield attended a visit with the Minnesota Vikings and officially signed with them the following day.