1. Quarterback
Quarterback is, of course, up first. All eyes, nationally and locally, are on J.J. McCarthy. All offseason, we’ve been subjected to idiot reports that the Vikings aren’t sold on McCarthy. I believe that the team has been sold on McCarthy since he stepped into the building. You can see that belief in the smiles of every coach and player when asked about the progress of the young quarterback. I believe that the Vikings have finally found their quarterback. It won’t take long for the rest of the football world to see it as well.
2. Receiver
Personally, I always enjoy watching the development of the receivers. At the top of the group, Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are great. The duo is arguably the league’s best. I’d take them over any of the league’s other top duos. Behind them, is an interesting group. For three years, injuries have kept Jalen Nailor from becoming the contributor that he has the talent to be. He was mostly healthy last year and responded with six touchdowns. He was especially productive early in the season when Addison was out with injuries. This spring, Nailor arrived looking bigger and stronger. He looks ready for his fourth season. Newcomers are free agent Rondale Moore and third-round pick Tai Felton. Moore missed last season to a torn ACL. He’s still rehabbing that injury. If healthy, he brings intriguing quickness and versatility to the offense. Felton could challenge Nailor as the Vikings fastest receiver. The rookie has play-making, game-breaking potential.
3. Defensive Line
I expect the competition for the available defensive line spots to be the most interesting of training camp. After starters Harrison Phillips, Jonathan Allen, and Javon Hargrave, it’s wide open. Fifth-round pick Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins will likely get one of those spots. After that, Jalen Redmond, Levi Drake-Rodriguez, Taki Taimani, and undrafted rookies Alexander Williams and Elijah Williams will bring a spirited competition for two, maybe three spots.
4. Outside Linebackers
The greatest challenge for defensive coordinator Brian Flores and outside linebacker coach Thad Bogardus is finding a way to get Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Dallas Turner on the field as much as possible. Perhaps even all three at the same time. The competition between Gabriel Murphy, Bo Richter, and undrafted rookie Tyler Batty for the remaining spots will be fun.
5. Cornerbacks
Most of the local and national talking heads see the Vikings cornerback group as one in need of upgrades. I’d prefer to see it play out with the group that they have. If the Vikings 2025 cornerback group includes Byron Murphy Jr., Isaiah Rodgers, Jeff Okudah, Mekhi Blackmon, and Dwight McGlothern, I’ll be thrilled. I believe the group will be a team strength. I’m especially intrigued by the plans for Okudah.
Other positions that intrigue:
-returners
-tight ends
-inside linebackers
-that punter competition
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