Minnesota Vikings Defensive Needs By Position

Yesterday, I looked at the offensive needs by position of the Minnesota Vikings. Today, it’s the defense’s turn.

Defensive Line

Jonathan Allen

Harrison Phillips

Javon Hargrave

Jalen Redmond

Taki Taimani

Levi Drake Rodriguez 

Travis Bell

Jonathan Harris

On the offseason priority list, improving the defensive line was right behind improving the offensive line. The Vikings emphatically addressed both of the lines. Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave were early targets. The defensive line was an unheralded, workmanlike group last season. While they were often stout against the run, their pressure on the quarterback was minimal. Allen and Hargrave should change that. They’ve made their careers on harassing quarterbacks. Jalen Redmond, Taki Taimani, and Levi Drake Rodriguez are a promising group of youngsters behind the new first group. With Allen and Hargrave on the other side of 30, defensive line is still a need in the draft. It’s just not the immediate need it was a month ago. 

Outside Linebackers

Jonathan Greenard

Andrew Van Ginkel

Dallas Turner

Gabriel Murphy

Bo Richter

The edge group is the strength of the defense. Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel were a revelation in their first season in Minnesota. They played so well that first-round pick Dallas Turner saw limited snaps. When Turner did get a chance, he flashed his considerable natural skills. The more opportunities he gets in his second season the better. Greenard, Van Ginkel, and Turner will force defensive coordinator Brian Flores and the defensive coaches into finding ways to get the trio on the field as much as possible. As undrafted rookies, Gabriel Murphy and Bo Richter showed NFL abilities. Murphy caught the attention of coaches early in training camp. His fast start was slowed by an injury. It was an injury that forced him to start his rookie season on injured reserve. He’ll get another shot to earn playing time this offseason and training camp. Bo Richter made an impact on special teams. As with Murphy, he’ll get a shot at defensive snaps in his second season. A team can never have enough pass rushers but the Vikings outside linebackers look good as they are. I guess a concern is that Van Ginkel turns 30 in July. 

Inside Linebackers

Blake Cashman

Ivan Pace Jr.

Eric Wilson

Brian Asamoah II

Max Tooley

The inside linebacker group is in good shape as well. Blake Cashman was excellent in his first season with the Vikings. He and Ivan Pace Jr. form a complimentary duo. Pace is very good coming downhill. Cashman is very good going side to side and dropping in coverage. Eric Wilson and Brian Asamoah II provide nice depth. Both are excellent on special teams. If for no other reason but competition, the inside linebacker group could use some reinforcements. 

Cornerback

Byron Murphy Jr.

Mekhi Blackmon

Isaiah Rodgers

Jeff Okudah

Dwight McGlothern

NaJee Thompson

Tavierre Thomas

Ambry Thomas

Nahshon Wright

Reddy Steward

Kahlef Hailassie 

The Vikings cornerbacks are in much better shape than they were at this point last season. That isn’t really saying much. Byron Murphy Jr. was a priority re-signing this offseason. The Vikings accomplished that. Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah were added in free agency. The most optimistic of observers might see this as a group with some potential. In reality, Murphy is the only corner that’s truly proven. Cornerback is the defensive position most in need of immediate, high end upgrades. 

Safety

Harrison Smith

Joshua Metellus

Theo Jackson

Jay Ward

Bubba Bolden

Harrison Smith returning for his 14th season keeps safety from being an immediate need. The sad day when he retires has been a year away for a few years. Calling Joshua Metellus a safety takes away his greatest strength. He plays all over the defense. While Theo Jackson has earned a shot to start, his ability to actually do so remains to be seen. Jay Ward has been an integral special teams player since he was drafted in 2021. He should be ready for increased snaps on defense. Safety isn’t an immediate need but it’s a year away from being a position of significant need. 

Minnesota Vikings defensive needs:

1. Cornerback - early in the draft

2. Safety - early in the draft

3. Defensive Line - early in the draft

4. Inside Linebackers - later in the draft/undrafted

5. Outside Linebackers - only if a unique player somehow is available

With only four draft picks in total, and only two in the first three rounds, it’s currently impossible for the Vikings to address cornerback, safety, and defensive line early in the draft. That’s why a trade back might be their most likely first round option. 

The Vikings have done enough work through the first few weeks of free agency to set themselves up for a draft in which they don’t have to address any particular position. That’s a very good thing. 

Minnesota Vikings Offensive Needs By Position

The 2025 NFL Draft is less than one month away. Here’s a look at the needs of the Minnesota Vikings by position. The offense is up first.

Quarterback

J.J. McCarthy

Brett Rypien

General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell came to Minnesota in 2022 with this day in mind. The roster work of the past three offseasons was focused on the day in which a talented, young quarterback on a rookie contract topped the position’s depth chart. Moving forward, J.J. McCarthy has the keys to the Vikings offense. I can’t wait for the start of this new era of Vikings football. Adofo-Mensah and O’Connell can talk up the traits of Brett Rypien all they want but the Vikings need a veteran quarterback supporting their young, inexperienced starter. That veteran quarterback was supposed to be Daniel Jones. Instead of supporting McCarthy, Jones decided to compete for a starting job with the Indianapolis Colts. No one can blame him for that. That disappointment leaves the Vikings sifting through the likes of Joe Flacco, Carson Wentz, and Ryan Tannehill. 

Running Back

Aaron Jones

Jordan Mason

Ty Chandler

Zavier Scott

C.J. Ham - fullback

A few weeks ago, the Vikings possibly selecting a running back in the first round was a trendy topic. Then they acquired Jordan Mason from the San Francisco 49ers. That trade gave the Vikings a top notch running back duo. Running back could still be a late-round need as they could use a situational back with receiving skills. On that note, I’m curious to see Zavier Scott. The Vikings signed him to the practice just before the start of last season. No one’s seen him on the field, in a game, in a Vikings jersey. He played some receiver in college. Perhaps the team’s pass-catching back is already on the roster. 

Wide Receiver

Justin Jefferson

Jordan Addison

Jalen Nailor

Rondale Moore

Thayer Thomas

Lucky Jackson

Jeshaun Jones

Tim Jones

The Vikings receiving duo of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison is arguably the league’s best. Jalen Nailor is a speedy #3. The free agent addition of Rondale Moore gives the Vikings some unique options. Anytime he gets the ball in his hands he can create an explosive play. The only thing this receiver group is missing is a big, possession receiver. I’m not sure if the Vikings decision-makers are necessarily looking for one but I see a need for a 6’3”, or taller, receiver that’s excellent in contested catch situations. A receiver like Iowas State’s Jayden Higgins works. 

Tight End

T.J. Hockenson

Josh Oliver

The departure of Johnny Mundt in free agency made tight end depth a significant need. T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver are very good to excellent in their roles but the Vikings need another tight end. 

Offensive Line

Christian Darrisaw

Blake Brandel

Ryan Kelly

Will Fries

Brian O’Neill

Justin Skule

Walter Rouse

Michael Jurgens

Marcellus Johnson

Leroy Watson

Trevor Reid

Henry Byrd

Improving the interior of the offensive line was one of the biggest needs of the offseason. The Vikings addressed those needs with the signings of Ryan Kelly and Will Fries. A significant weakness in 2024 became a strength in 2025. The Vikings could continue the aggressive offensive line rebuild by adding another interior offensive lineman early in the draft. Blake Brandel is a solid player but an elite talent would bump him to a strong depth role. Ryan Kelly is also 32 and closer to the end of his career than the start. A player like North Dakota State’s Grey Zabel could start out at left guard and be the eventual replacement for Kelly at center. Whatever the team’s plans, I expect the offensive line to be further addressed in the draft. For the first time in more than a decade, the Vikings have the makings of a very good offensive line. They can’t allow a slide back past mediocrity by not continuing to address the group. 

Minnesota Vikings offensive needs:

1. Backup Quarterback - free agency

2. Interior Offensive Line - draft

3. Backup Tight End - draft/undrafted

4. Big Receiver - draft/undrafted

5. Pass Catching Back - draft/might already be on the roster. 

Tomorrow: Minnesota Vikings Defensive Needs

Minnesota Vikings Coaching Staff

Unless it’s something major, changes to an NFL coaching staff are often “under-the-radar” news. The Minnesota Vikings dodged major changes. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores interviewed for a handful of head coach jobs. Fortunately, for the Vikings, those teams proved to be irretrievably stupid and went in different directions for their head coaching needs. The Vikings biggest coaching loss was assistant offensive coordinator Grant Udinski. He’ll continue his rapid coaching climb as the offensive coordinator of the Jacksonville Jaguars. I was hoping that he’d remain in Minnesota for another season. It was clear early on that he’s too talented to keep hidden for long. Not only did Udinski leave but he also took assistant offensive line coach Shaun Sarrett with him to Jacksonville. The Vikings hired New Orleans Saints offensive assistant Jordan Traylor to replace Udinski as the team’s assistant offensive coordinator/assistant quarterbacks coach. The Vikings also recently hired Charlie Frye as defensive assistant. Originally drafted in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns, he a quarterback for the Browns (2005-07), Seattle Seahawks (2007-08), and Oakland Raiders (2009-10). Since his playing days, Frye has coached at the high school, college, and NFL levels. In 2021, he was the quarterbacks coach of the Miami Dolphins under head coach Brian Flores. Now, he’s working for Flores again as a defensive assistant. 

The Vikings may or may not have a remaining coaching vacancy. About a month ago, former New York Jets and Tennessee Titans offensive line coach Keith Carter was reportedly hired to replace Shaun Sarrett as assistant offensive line coach. It was a somewhat controversial hire. Carter has received criticism from some of his players for apparent “tough guy” coaching tactics. While an offensive line can use a little mean streak in them, a coach with Carter’s reputation might not necessarily fit with the culture and environment the Vikings have created. Anyway, reports of his hiring were about a month ago and Minnesota has yet to officially announce it. Carter also isn’t listed in the coaching roster on the team’s website. Who knows the status of this potential hire? 

Here is the current coaching staff of the Minnesota Vikings

Minnesota Vikings Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Kevin O’Connell

Assistant Head Coach/Outside Linebackers: Mike Pettine

Offensive Coordinator: Wes Phillips

Defensive Coordinator: Brian Flores

Special Teams Coordinator: Matt Daniels

Offense:

Quarterbacks: Josh McCown

Assistant Offensive Coordinator/Assistant Quarterbacks: Jordan Traylor

Senior Offensive Assistant: Chris O’Hara

Run Game Coordinator/Running Backs: Curtis Modkins

Receivers: Keenan McCardell

Assistant Receivers: Tony Sorrentino

Pass Game Coodinator/Tight Ends: Brian Angelichio

Offensive Line: Chris Kuper

Assistant Offensive Line: ?

Pass Game Specialist/Game Management Coordinator: Ryan Cordell

Quality Control: Derron Montgomery

Offensive Assistant: Ben Ellefson

Assistant to the Head Coach: Henry Schneider IV

Defense:

Defensive Line: Marcus Dixon

Assistant Defensive Line: Patrick Hill

Inside Linebackers: Mike Siravo

Assistant Inside Linebackers: Thad Bogardus

Defensive Backs: Daronte Jones

Safeties: Michael Hutchings

Defensive Assistant: Imarjaye Albury

Defensive Assistant: Charlie Frye

Special Teams:

Assistant Special Teams: Dalmin Gibson

Another Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft w/Help

The Athletic’s Alec Lewis recently posted a Minnesota Vikings NFL Draft big board. With this big board, Lewis selected ten players that would make sense at each at each of the team’s picks. With only four picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s a small big board. The four picks are a first, a third, a fifth, and a sixth. The following is a Vikings mock draft with help from Lewis. For each pick, I’ve selected one player from his list of ten. 

Round 1:

Lewis’ first-round options:

Grey Zabel, G/C, North Dakota State

Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

Tyler Booker, G, Alabama

Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State

Mason Taylor, TE, LSU

This tough choice comes down to the first four on the list. I’d like to see Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant on the list. I feel like there’s as much chance that he’s available at #24 as Jahdae Barron. Ultimately, it comes down to a toss-up between Barron and Grey Zabel. 

The pick: Grey Zabel, G/C, North Dakota State

Round 3:

Lewis’ third-round options:

T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina

Trey Amos, CB, Mississippi

Gunnar Helm, TE, Texas

Marcus Mbow, G, Purdue

Josh Farmer, DT, Florida State

Quincy Riley, CB, Louisville

Omar Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee

Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia

Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State

RJ Harvey, RB, Central Florida

This one comes down to Omar Norman-Lott and Darien Porter. One day, it might be Norman-Lott. Another, it might be Porter. 

The pick: Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State

Round 5:

Lewis’ fifth-round options:

Damien Martinez, RB, Miami

Seth McLaughlin, C, Ohio State

Bhayshul Tuten, RB, Virginia Tech

Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State

Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas

CJ West, DT, Indiana

Xavier Restrepo, WR, Miami

Joshua Gray, G, Oregon State

Trevor Etienne, RB, Georgia

JJ Pegues, DT, Mississippi 

The running backs would be nice but ultimately the Vikings need a defensive tackle. 

The pick: CJ West, DT, Indiana

Round 6:

DJ Giddens, RB, Kansas State

Nohl Williams, CB, Cal

Elijah Roberts, DT/Edge, SMU

R.J. Mickens, S, Clemson

Tea Johnson, WR, Oregon

Tommi Hill, CB, Nebraska

Jared Harrison-Hunte, DT, SMU

Clay Webb, G, Jacksonville State

Woody Marks, RB, USC

Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State

This pick comes down to DJ Giddens or Nohl Williams. Right now, I’m leaning toward the running back. After losing Cam Bynum to the Indianapolis Colts in free agency, it sure would be nice to add another talented Cal defensive back. 

The pick: DJ Giddens, RB, Kansas State

The draft:

1. Grey Zabel, G/C, North Dakota State

3. Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State

5. CJ West, DT, Indiana

6. DJ Giddens, RB, Kansas State

I’d take this draft. 

Thanks for the assistance, Alec Lewis. 

Throwback Thursday: All - Time Minnesota Vikings Coaching Staff

The Flicker was originally posted on January 25, 2020. 

All the chatter about the Minnesota Vikings coaching staff got me thinking about the best coaches that have done some time with the team. From those thoughts, I couldn't stop myself from piecing together an All-Time Minnesota Vikings Coaching Staff.

Head Coach

Bud Grant

Offense

Offensive Coordinator

Kevin O’Connell

Quarterbacks 

Norm Van Brocklin

Running Backs

Jerry Burns

Receivers

Keenan McCardell

Tight Ends

Chip Myers

Offensive Line
John Michels

Assistant Offensive Line
Mike Tice

Defense

Defensive Coordinator
Mike Zimmer

Defensive Line
Buddy Ryan

Assistant Defensive Line
Andre Patterson

Linebackers
Brian Flores

Defensive Backs
Tony Dungy

Assistant Defensive Backs
Pete Carroll

Special Teams

Special Teams Coordinator
Bud Grant

Assistant Special Teams
Gary Zauner

I tried to place each of the coaches in positions that they held with the Vikings. Mike Zimmer doesn't hold the title of defensive coordinator but there's no doubt that he coordinates the defense as the head coach. I also demoted the Vikings first head coach to quarterback coach. Norm Van Brocklin never spent a day as an assistant coach. He went straight from NFL MVP to head coach of an expansion team. Fran Tarkenton said that Van Brocklin had a brilliant mind for offensive football. That's good enough for me. Perhaps he'd be better suited as the team's offensive coordinator but I really want Kevin O’Connell in that position. That forces Jerry Burns to backfield coach. The emotional range of Van Brocklin, Burns, and O’Connell together would be a riot to witness. Tony Dungy coordinated the defense for Dennis Green. He was never the Vikings defensive back coach but he gets that job for this team. Brian Flores was the linebackers coach of the New England Patriots. I had to have the defensive trio of Zimmer, Dungy, and Flores on this staff. Picking a special teams coordinator was an issue. The Vikings' special teams during their Super Bowl years were factors in so many games. I've never seen a team block as many kicks and punts as those teams did. I wanted the special teams coach of those teams to be the All-Time coordinator. The problem is that no Vikings coach had that specific title. Entire NFL coaching staffs of that era could fit into one of today's SUVs. Assistant coaches often had to work with more than a single position group. Bud Grant stressed the importance of special teams. Because the special teams of his teams were so damn special he gets to be the head coach and coordinate the special teams.

From a Vikings perspective, I'm not sure if it's a good or bad thing that former assistants Pete Carroll, Tony Dungy, Brian Billick, and Mike Tomlin went on to be Super Bowl-winning head coaches for other teams. Buddy Ryan wasn't the head coach of a Super Bowl-winning but he played a significant role in winning one as a defensive coordinator.

The Vikings offensive explosion in 1998 propelled Brian Billick into a head coaching opportunity with the Baltimore Ravens. Chip Myers coached the receivers from 1994-97 and quarterbacks in 1998. His work with the receivers and juggling of Brad Johnson and Randall Cunningham during the explosive 1998 season made him an easy choice to replace Billick as the Vikings offensive coordinator. About a month after being promoted, Myers died suddenly at the age of 53 of a heart attack. In a sad case of what might have been, I've often wondered what a Chip Myers-led Vikings offense might have looked like. Playmakers like Randy Moss, Cris Carter, Jake Reed, and Robert Smith can make coaching look easy. I thought that the Vikings offense could build on what they did in 1998. Instead, that was their peak. The sad, sudden loss of Myers left a hole on the coaching staff that Dennis Green never could fill.

There weren't enough positions on this coaching staff for all of the terrific coaches that have impacted the Vikings franchise. Here are a few of the former Vikings coaches that deserve mention:

Jack Patera
Neil Armstrong
Bus Mertes
Floyd Peters
John Teerlinck
Paul Wiggin
Mike Tomlin

Flea Flicker Top 5 Draft Prospects By Position

The 2025 NFL Draft is less than a month away. Here’s a look at some of best players at each position. 

Quarterbacks

1. Cam Ward, Miami

2. Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

3. Jaxson Dart, Mississippi

4. Kyle McCord, Syracuse

5. Jalen Milroe, Alabama

Running Backs

1. Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

2. Omarion Hampton, North Carolina

3. Kaleb Johnson, Iowa

4. TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State

5. Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State

Wide Receivers

1. Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

2. Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

3. Luther Burden III, Missouri

4. Matthew Golden, Texas

5. Tre Harris, Mississippi

I have Colorado CB/WR Travis Hunter at corner. As a receiver, he’d easily be in the Top 5. Perhaps at WR1.

Tight Ends

1. Tyler Warren, Penn State

2. Colston Loveland, Michigan

3. Elijah Arroyo, Miami

4. Mason Taylor, LSU

5. Harold Fannin Jr., Bowling Green

Offensive Tackles

1. Will Campbell, LSU

2. Armand Membou, Missouri

3. Josh Simmons, Ohio State

4. Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

5. Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon

Interior Offensive Line

1. Tyler Booker, Alabama

2. Grey Zabel, North Dakota State

3. Donovan Jackson, Ohio State

4. Jared Wilson, Georgia

5. Tate Ratledge, Georgia

Edge

1. Abdul Carter, Penn State

2. Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M

3. Mike Green, Marshall

4. Mykel Williams, Georgia

5. Donovan Ezeiruaku, Boston College

Defensive Tackles

1. Mason Graham, Michigan

2. Walter Nolen, Mississippi

3. Kenneth Grant, Michigan

4. Derrick Harmon, Oregon

5. Darius Alexander, Toledo

Linebackers

1. Jalon Walker, Georgia

2. Jihaad Campbell, Alabama

3. Barrett Carter, Clemson

4. Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon

5. Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma

Cornerbacks

1. Travis Hunter, Colorado

2. Jahdae Barron, Texas

3. Will Johnson, Michigan

4. Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina

5. Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State

Safeties

1. Malaki Starks, Georgia

2. Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina

3. Xavier Watts, Notre Dame

4. Andrew Mukuba, Texas

5. Sebastian Castro, Iowa

Current Draft Crushes

The 2025 NFL Draft is less than one month away. The Minnesota Vikings are currently scheduled to have only four picks. They have the 24th pick, a third-round compensatory, and a pick in the fifth and sixth rounds. Through contemplating the players likely available to the Vikings, I’ve developed some draft crushes. Those crushes start with four players I hope make it to #24.

Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

Tyler Booker, G, Alabama

I’ve seen mock drafts that have the Vikings selecting each of the above. I’ve seen rankings that have one or more slotted around the 20s. Basically, talent evaluators that don’t make the picks see these crushes of mine potentially available to the Vikings. I’m not so sure. I can see a scenario in which the people actually paid to make the picks take all four off the board before the draft gets to the 20th pick. 

I believe that there’s a real good chance that the Vikings trade back from the 24th pick. With so few opportunities, they could use that pick to acquire more opportunities. A reason not to trade back is if any one of the above draft crushes is available. 

Here are some draft crushes that should be available at the end of the first round or early in the second round. If the Vikings trade back a bit, these are players that should be available.

Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State

Derrick Harmon, DT, Michigan

Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo

Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina

Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State

Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky

Trey Amos, CB, Mississippi

Darrien Porter, CB, Iowa State

Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame

It’s clear that I’ve been particularly focused on interior offensive linemen, defensive tackles, and cornerbacks. That continues into my later round draft crushes.

Wyatt Milum, OL, West Virginia

Willie Lampkin, OL, North Carolina

Eli Cox, C, Kentucky

Jordan Phillips, DT, Maryland

Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

C.J. West, DT, Indiana

Rylie Mills, DT, Notre Dame

Cam Jackson, DT, Florida State

Quincy Riley, CB, Louisville

Nohl Williams, CB, California

Dorian Strong, CB, Virginia Tech

O’Donnell Fortune, CB, South Carolina

Mello Dotson, CB, Kansas 

With the re-signing of Aaron Jones and the trade for Jordan Mason, running back is no longer the need it looked to be about a month ago. Despite a promising running duo of Jones and Mason, the Vikings could use a speedy third back that can make an impact in the pass game. In a terrific running back draft, I’ve found a few that I like.

D.J. Giddens, RB, Kansas State

Brashard Smith, RB, SMU

Marcus Yarns, RB, Delaware

LeQuint Allen, Syracuse

I’ve also grown quite fond of a couple big, powerful runners.

Damien Martinez, RB, Miami

Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State

The Vikings have four picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. With those four picks, it’d be nice if they could select the following draft crushes.

Tyler Booker, G, Alabama

Quincy Riley, CB, Louisville

Cam Jackson, DT, Florida State

LeQuint Allen, RB, Syracuse

Or 

Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

Willie Lampkin, OL, North Carolina

Marcus Yarns, RB, Delaware

Or 

Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State

Nohl Williams, CB, California

Brashard Smith, RB, SMU

C.J. West, DT, Indiana

I can probably shake out any four of the above draft crushes and be happy. 

Another Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft

 It’s time for another Minnesota Vikings mock draft. The PFF Mock Draft Simulator makes things too easy. It’s addicting too. This one starts with a trade out of the first round for a couple extra picks. The Vikings currently hold only four picks in the real draft. With so few picks, I feel that a first-round trade back is likely.

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft

The trade with the New England Patriots:

Patriots receive:

R1 #24

Vikings receive:

R2 #38

R3 #69

R5: #155

The Picks:

2. Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo

3. Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame

3. Wyatt Milum, OT, West Virginia

5. Brashard Smith, RB, SMU

5. Mitchell Evans, Notre Dame

6. Tai Felton, WR, Maryland

There are a few defensive tackles that are expected to be selected at the end of the first round to early in the second round. Of those, Darius Alexander is one of my favorites. The Vikings signed defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave to start immediately. Allen is 30. Hargrave is 32. The defensive line has been upgraded but could use young reinforcements. Benjamin Morrison is a risky pick due to a hip injury suffered last season. There’s a risk but the reward could be so high. Morrison would’ve been an early first-round pick if he didn’t have injury concerns. Wyatt Milum is an intriguing offensive line prospect. He was a left tackle at West Virginia that might project better as an inside player. He could challenge Blake Brandel for the left guard spot. The Vikings re-signed Aaron Jones and traded for Jordan Mason. Running back is no longer a serious need but a quick, versatile back like Brashard Smith would be a nice addition to the backfield. The Vikings lost #3 tight end Johnny Mundt in free agency. With the number of two-tight end formations used, the position is a minor need. There was a time when Notre Dame was Tight End U. That title has shifted to Iowa in recent years. Maybe Mitchell Evans can be the next Kyle Rudolph for the Vikings. That’s a lofty goal but this is the time for hope. As for conjuring up former Vikings players, perhaps Tai Felton can follow the path of Stefon Diggs as a Day 3 receiver out of Maryland. 

Until the next one. 

Post-Free Agency Mock Draft

The whirlwind of free agency has passed. It isn’t over. Free agency is never really over in the NFL but nearly all of the needle-moving moves are done. Many teams have addressed their roster needs with pricey and perhaps not so pricey free agents. The player movement across the league has forced the need for a new mock draft. There’s always a need for a new mock draft. 

1.   Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami

2.   Cleveland Browns: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State

3.   New York Giants: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

4.   New England Patriots: Travis Hunter, CB, Colorado

5.   Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

6.   Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

7.   New York Jets: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

8.   Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, Edge, Georgia

9.   New Orleans Saints: Will Campbell, OT, LSU

10. Chicago Bears: Armand Membou, OL, Missouri

11. San Francisco 49ers: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

12. Dallas Cowboys: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

13. Miami Dolphins: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama

14. Indianapolis Colts: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

15. Atlanta Falcons: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

16. Arizona Cardinals: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia

18. Seattle Seahawks: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

20. Denver Broncos: Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

23. Green Bay Packers: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

24. Minnesota Vikings: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

25. Houston Texans: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

26. Los Angeles Rams: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

27. Baltimore Ravens: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee

28. Detroit Lions: Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, Boston College

29. Washington Commanders: Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

30. Buffalo Bills: Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina

31. Kansas City Chiefs: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

32. Philadelphia Eagles: Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo

Until the next one. 

Minnesota Vikings Projected Starters

The Minnesota Vikings entered the offseason with some needs. With significant cap space and only four draft picks, the Vikings had to rely on the NFL’s open market to address most of those needs. They were active in their pursuit of talent. Through nearly two weeks of free agency, the Vikings re-signed four of their own players, signed 12 new players, and traded for another. Nearly all of the 13 new players are expected to either start or supply needed depth. 

In 2024, the Vikings won 14 games. They were and still are a talented team. Despite that appraisal they had significant needs. The Week 18 loss to the Detroit Lions and playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams seriously exposed the need to strengthen the interior of their offensive and defensive lines. Their efforts in the early stages of free agency focused on the trenches. Needs in the secondary were addressed with internal and external signings. It’s the middle of March and it’s likely that the Vikings have their 2025 Week 1 starters on the roster. Their projected starters look good. 

Offense

WR	Justin Jefferson
TE	T.J.Hockenson
LT	Christian Darrisaw
LG	Blake Brandel
C	Ryan Kelly
RG	Will Fries
RT	Brian O’Neill
WR	Jordan Addison
QB	J.J. McCarthy
RB	Aaron Jones
FB	C.J. Ham

Defense

DE	Jonathan Allen
NT	Harrison Phillips
DE	Javon Hargrave
OLB	Jonathan Greenard
LB	Ivan Pace Jr.
LB	Blake Cashman
OLB	Andrew Van Ginkel
CB	Byron Murphy Jr.
CB	Isaiah Rodgers
S	Harrison Smith
S	Theo Jackson
NB	Josh Metellus

The Vikings have only four picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. They have the 24th pick in the first round, a third-round compensatory pick, and two fifth-round picks. That’s not a lot of draft resources. It’s so few that the most likely use of their first round pick is to trade back and generate a few more picks. While the current lineup looks nice on paper, there are some positions that could still be upgraded. No offense to Blake Brandel, Harrison Phillips, and some of the defensive backs but those positions could be targeted with early round selections. If the Vikings hit on their picks, those drafted players could be playing for starting spots at left guard, nose tackle, and cornerback or safety. 

Through nearly two weeks of free agency the Vikings have effectively addressed their needs. So much so that for the first time in a long time they will enter the draft without obvious roster holes to fill. 

Minnesota Vikings Cornerbacks

The Minnesota Vikings need for upgrades on the interior of the offensive and defensive lines had been highlighted and talked about plenty during and since last season. Slightly under those significant needs has been a considerable need to upgrade the cornerback position. Flipping from last season to this season, only three cornerbacks were initially on the roster. And two of those were coming back from season-ending injuries. In that sense, the Vikings had to completely rebuild their cornerback position. 

Nearly two weeks into the offseason, the Vikings cornerback room looks something like this:

Byron Murphy Jr.

Mekhi Blackmon

Isaiah Rodgers

Jeff Okudah

Dwight McGlothern

NaJee Thompson

Tavierre Thomas

Ambry Thomas

Nahshon Wright

Reddy Steward

Kahlef Hailassie

Before the signings of Ambry Thomas, Nahshon Wright, Reddy Steward, and Kahlef Hailassie to futures contracts, Mekhi Blackmon, Dwight McGlothern, and NaJee Thompson were the only corners scheduled to be on the 2025 roster. Blackmon and Thompson were/are coming back from injuries that wiped out their 2024 seasons. Through his single 2023 season, Thompson was/is considered more of a special teams player. As an undrafted free agent, McGlothern earned a roster spot with some sparkling play in training camp and the preseason. He was a game day inactive for most of the season but got some snaps. He looked like he belonged in those limited snaps. Despite the undrafted status, McGlothern has a bright future in the league. As for the present, he entered the offseason as the only healthy, returning corner on the Vikings roster. Byron Murphy Jr., the leader of this group, was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. He had played his way to a hefty new contract. There was no guarantee that he’d be back but his re-signing was a priority. It was a priority right there with improving the offensive and defensive line. Fortunately, Murphy was re-signed before free agency officially opened on March 12. 

Considering that he was the first new player signed during the “legal tampering” window, the Vikings clearly targeted Isaiah Rodgers. Other than a 2023 season lost to a gambling suspension, Rodgers has been seen as a corner on the rise. The Vikings certainly see him that way. Last year, he was a significant contributor on a very good Philadelphia Eagles defense. His was an under-the-radar signing but it could prove to be one of the best of a very active free agency. 

It’s probably safe to say that, in March, the Vikings top three corners are Byron Murphy Jr, Mekhi Blackmon, and Isaiah Rodgers. That’s a starting trio that could surprise. Veteran, but still young, Jeff Okudah was signed this week to further supplement the position. As the #3 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Okudah has elite NFL talent. He has yet to live up to that talent. That’s why he’s a supplemental signing six years later. Perhaps with the #3-pick pressure off, he and the Vikings coaches can find a path to tap into that talent. Signing Okudah is a low-risk signing that could yield high rewards. 

No games have been played but I do feel a whole lot better about the Vikings cornerback group. 

Minnesota Vikings Free Agent Signing Tracker

The Minnesota Vikings have been active since the start of free agency. With only four picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, much of the offseason’s reinforcements had to come through a modest to heavy spending spree. Here’s a look at the Vikings player movement so far.

Re-Signed:

Byron Murphy Jr., CB

Aaron Jones, RB

Theo Jackson, S

Ryan Wright, P

Signed:

Isaiah Rodgers, CB

Jonathan Allen, DT

Ryan Kelly, C

Will Fries, G

Javon Hargrave, DT

Tavierre Thomas, CB

Justin Skule, OT

Bubba Bolden, S

Eric Wilson, LB

Tim Jones, WR 

Jeff Okudah, CB

Rondale Moore, WR

Traded:

Jordan Mason, RB

Players Lost:

Camryn Bynum, S - Indianapolis Colts

Sam Darnold, QB - Seattle Seahawks

Daniel Jones, QB - Indianapolis Colts

Nick Mullens, QB - Jacksonville Jaguars

Patrick Jones II, Edge - Carolina Panthers

Johnny Mundt, TE - Jacksonville Jaguars

Jerry Tillery, DT - Kansas City Chiefs

Trent Sherfield, WR - Denver Broncos

Garrett Bradbury, C - New England Patriots

Cam Robinson, OT - Houston Texans

Traded:

Ed Ingram, G - Houston Texans 

Unsigned Vikings:

Cam Akers, RB

Jonathan Bullard, DT

Dan Feeney, C

Stephon Gilmore, CB

Shaq Griffin, CB

Kamu Grugier-Hill, LB

Fabian Moreau, CB

Brandon Powell, WR

David Quessenberry, OT

Dalton Risner, G

Jihad Ward, Edge

***

With each day, it feels like the Vikings are adding new players to the roster. Through the first 11 days of free agency, they’ve signed twelve players and traded for one more. 13 new players. The Vikings entered free agency with significant needs on the interiors of the offensive and defensive lines. Those needs were aggressively addressed early with the signings of Ryan Kelly, Will Fries, Jonathan Allen, and Javon Hargrave. The Vikings had needs at cornerback. To tackle those needs, they signed Isaiah Rodgers a few hours into the tampering. This week’s addition of Jeff Okudah further supplemented the position. A compliment to Aaron Jones at running back? The Vikings acquired Jordan Mason from the San Francisco 49ers over the weekend. A swing tackle? Enter Justin Skule. Special teams help? Tavierre Thomas and Eric Wilson. Receiver depth? Rondale Moore and Tim Jones. The Vikings have spent the past 11 days thoroughly addressing the needs of their roster. 

Now there’s the need for general depth. There’s always a need for general depth. The biggest depth need is a quarterback to back up J.J. McCarthy. How about Joe Flacco? Or Carson Wentz. Or Ryan Tannehill. Perhaps a trade. The Vikings need a veteran, backup quarterback. If the past 11 days are any indication, they’ll find a veteran quarterback. One that’s not a 41-year old disaster. 

The Vikings have done enough in free agency that the few picks they have in the draft might be more focused on future concerns. 

Favorite Free Agent Signings: AFC

Yesterday, I picked some of my favorite NFC free agent signings. It’s the AFC’s turn.

Baltimore Ravens

DeAndre Hopkins, WR

The Baltimore Ravens only signed a couple external free agents. DeAndre Hopkins was one of them. He’s toward the end of his terrific career but he should be a reliable target for Lamar Jackson.

Cincinnati Bengals

Ja’Marr Chase, WR

The Cincinnati Bengals also signed few external free agents. They were probably careful with money because they were going to be committing a lot of it to receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Much to the delight of quarterback Joe Burrow, the Bengals made Chase the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league. Higgins wasn’t too far behind. 

Cleveland Browns

Myles Garrett, Edge

The Myles Garrett soap opera came to an end with a giant new contract. The Cleveland Browns made him the highest-paid non-quarterback for about a week. 

Pittsburgh Steelers

Darius Slay, CB

If D.K. Metcalf could run more than a handful of routes, he might be the pick here. Instead, I’m going with a cornerback that’s about a year from retirement. 

Buffalo Bills

Joey Bosa, Edge

Joey Bosa is the pick simply because he’d the only defensive line addition of the Buffalo Bills that isn’t suspended for PEDs. 

New York Jets

Justin Fields, QB

The New York Jets will need a quarterback. And Justin Fields isn’t Aaron Rodgers. 

New England Patriots

Milton Williams, DT

Milton Williams was one of the best players available on the free agent market. The New England Patriots had the most salary cap space and won the bidding war for Williams.

Miami Dolphins

James Daniels, G

James Daniels was one of my favorite available guards. If he can stay healthy for an extended stretch perhaps he can emerge as one of the best guards in the league.

Indianapolis Colts

Camryn Bynum, S

On and off the field, Camryn Bynum’s departure from the Minnesota Vikings was a significant loss. The Vikings loss is definitely the Indianapolis Colts gain. He’s one of my favorite Cal players. 

Jacksonville Jaguars

Patrick Mekari, G

If the Vikings hadn’t signed Will Fries. Or James Daniels. Patrick Mekari was the guard of choice. Plus, he’s from Cal.

Houston Texans

Ed Ingram, G

Ed Ingram was my favorite addition of the Houston Texans mostly because that means he’s no longer the right guard of the Vikings. 

Tennessee Titans

Dre’Mont Jones, Edge

The Tennessee Titans signing of Dre’Mont Jones feels like one of those low risk, high reward signings that can pay off big. 

Denver Broncos

Dre Greenlaw, LB

Talanoa Hufanga, S

The Denver Broncos did a good job of ridding a very good 49ers defense of two of their better players. 

Kansas City Chiefs

Trey Smith, G

Trey Smith was scheduled to be the best guard and one of the best players on the free agent market. He was also my dream guard for the Vikings. The Kansas City Chiefs used the franchise tag to keep him for themselves. 

Las Vegas Raiders

Maxx Crosby, Edge

The Las Vegas Raiders had to secure their best football player. They did so in signing Maxx Crosby to a three-year extension. 

Los Angeles Chargers

Najee Harris, RB

Najee Harris feels like a fine fit for a Jim Harbaugh team. 

Favorite Free Agent Signings: NFC

NFL Free Agency has only been open for about a week. Already, signings have slowed to a trickle. Here’s a look at some of my favorite signings. The NFC teams are up first.

Minnesota Vikings

Isaiah Rodgers, CB

The Minnesota Vikings were busy. They added nine new players in the first week. They entered free agency with significant needs on the interior of the offensive and defensive lines. Most of their work in the first week was focused there. The Vikings signed defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave and offensive linemen Ryan Kelly and Will Fries. Cornerback was also a significant need. The Vikings clearly targeted Isaiah Rodgers as he was the first player they signed. I really only knew him for being suspended for the 2023 season for gambling. As a player, I only knew that he was the third corner on a very good Philadelphia Eagles defense. The more I look into Rodgers the more I think that he could be one of the best additions of an inspiring Vikings free agency. 

Chicago Bears

Dayo Odeyingbo, Edge

Like the Vikings, the Chicago Bears had an initial focus on the interior of the offensive line. They traded for guards John Thuney and Jonah Jackson prior to the start of free agency. They signed center Drew Dalman as soon as they could legally do so. Entering the offseason, Indianapolis Colts edge Dayo Odeyingbo felt like a player that could be one of the surprise winners of free agency. He felt like an ascending player and one fortunate could add him at just the right moment in his career. The Bears became that team. 

Green Bay Packers

Aaron Banks, G

The Green Bay Packers have only added two new players in free agency. They signed guard Aaron Banks to a surprisingly large four-year contract. They signed cornerback Nate Hobbs to a modest four-year contract. The signing of Banks was my favorite mostly because it took the Packers out of the bidding for Will Fries. 

Detroit Lions

D.J. Reed, CB

D.J. Reed was one of the better cornerbacks available in free agency. I would’ve liked his signing a lot more if he’d signed with a team other than the Detroit Lions. 

New York Giants

Paulson Adebo, CB

Paulson Adebo was one of my favorite cornerbacks in free agency. Because of his broken leg early in the season, I hoped that he’d fly under the radar of teams. Nope. Considering the three-year, $54 million deal he received from the New York Giants, there was a bidding war for Adebo. 

Philadelphia Eagles

Zack Baun, LB

In one season, Zack Baun proved to be a perfect fit for Vic Fangio’s defense. The Philadelphia Eagles were unfortunately wise to keep him around for a while. 

Washington Commanders

Laremy Tunsil, OT

The Washington Commanders made two trades that I really like. They acquired receiver Deebo Samuel from the San Francisco 49ers and offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans. It’s tough to pick a favorite but I’m going with the player tasked with protecting Jayden Daniels. 

Dallas Cowboys

Kenneth Murray, LB

The Dallas Cowboys have set a low bar. As with the Commanders, the Cowboys made a couple trades that I like. They acquired cornerback Kaiir Elam from the Buffalo Bills and linebacker from the Tennessee Titans. Both were players that I liked coming out of college. Neither has truly lived up to their respective draft standing. Kenneth Murray has come closer to being the player he was drafted to be. Perhaps, he breaks out with the Cowboys. 

New Orleans Saints

Cam Jordan, Edge

Despite a woeful salary cap situation, the New Orleans Saints found a way to keep one of their leaders. I just liked that one of my favorite Cal players is sticking with the team that drafted him. 

Atlanta Falcons

Leonard Floyd, Edge

It was tough to find a favorite signing for the Atlanta Falcons. They haven’t done much. They did add a proven, but oldish, pass rusher in Leonard Floyd. 

Carolina Panthers

Tershawn Wharton, DT

If the Vikings hadn’t signed Jonathan Allen and/or Javon Hargrave, Tershawn Wharton was one of my favorite defensive tackles in free agency. The Carolina Panthers added an ascending player. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Chris Godwin, WR

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers focused more on keeping their own players than adding new ones. The Buccaneers needed Chris Godwin back. Baker Mayfield definitely needed him back. 

San Francisco 49ers

Demarcus Robinson, WR

The San Francisco 49ers have spent the early part of the offseason shedding salary. Most additions have been of the “under-the-radar” variety. They did add a proven receiver in Demarcus Robinson. They also took him from a division rival. 

Los Angeles Rams

Davante Adams, WR

The Los Angeles Rams adding Davante Adams was interesting as it felt like a sway for Cooper Kupp. Despite being a year older than Kupp, Adams feels like a more impactful receiver. Matthew Stafford should like throwing to Adams and Puka Nacua. 

Arizona Cardinals

Josh Sweat, Edge

Josh Sweat sure flipped a nice postseason run with the Eagles into a nice contract with the Arizona Cardinals. He was one of the top players on the free agency market. Now, we get to see whether he was an excellent rotational player or can be a team’s top pass rusher. 

Seattle Seahawks

Sam Darnold, QB

After the season Sam Darnold just had with the Vikings, there’s a lot of pressure on the Seattle Seahawks to get a similar season out of him. The Seahawks receiving trio of D.K. Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba is down to Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp. That’s a far cry from Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. 

Minnesota Vikings Quarterbacks

The Minnesota Vikings roster currently sits with two quarterbacks. 

J.J. McCarthy

Brett Rypien

The two quarterbacks have combined for 168 pass attempts and 98 completions. They also combine for four touchdowns and nine interceptions. All of those numbers belong to Brett Rypien. 

Two weeks into March, it’s an unusual situation when an NFL team’s projected starting quarterback is on the roster and that quarterback has no regular season stats. 

The Vikings drafted J.J. McCarthy with the 10th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to be the quarterback of the future. He may have been the quarterback of the team’s present if he hadn’t left a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders with a torn meniscus. Instead, the Vikings get Sam Darnold with a breakout season. The Vikings won 14 games and the best quarterback on the roster missed his rookie season. 

It’s so easy to compare the Vikings current quarterback situation with that of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2018.

In the 2017 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs traded a bushel of picks for the 10th pick. J.J. McCarthy and Patrick Mahomes were selected with the 10th pick of their respective drafts. Mahomes sat until the final week. In his lone start, he played like a talented rookie that sat for 15 weeks. He completed 22 of 35 passes for 284 yards. One interception, zero touchdowns. Rookie stuff. After an early playoff exit, the Chiefs shipped starter Alex Smith to Washington. Mahomes was the unquestioned starter going into his second season. 

Like Sam Darnold in 2024, Alex Smith played very well in 2017. Each ended their respective seasons with a frustrating, first-round playoff loss. There was promise for both moving forward with their teams. The difference between the two situations was that no talking heads seemed to question the Chiefs moving on to Patrick Mahomes. Every talking head seems to question the Vikings moving on to J.J. McCarthy. Pre-franchise tag deadline, there was no end to the discussions that the Vikings should secure Darnold with the tag. After the Vikings declined that route, there was no end to the discussions that the Vikings should re-sign Darnold in advance of the free agency. After Darnold signed with the Seattle Seahawks, there was no end to the discussions that the Vikings should sign an ancient, cancerous Aaron Rodgers. Why? Signing Rodgers would have the potential to wreck a culture and environment that’s taken three years to create. In 2022, the Vikings put together a plan to get to this point and now they trash it. Why? Kevin O’Connell and his coaches got an unbelievable season out of Sam Darnold. Who’s to say they can’t do the same with another talented, young quarterback. The Vikings drafted J.J. McCarthy with the 10th pick of the 2024 NFL Draft to be their quarterback of the future. At some point, the quarterback of the future has to become the quarterback of the present. 

The Vikings do need another quarterback. Preferably a veteran quarterback with starting experience. That quarterback is not Aaron Rodgers. I’d rather that quarterback be Kevin O’Connell or Josh McCown than Rodgers. Joe Flacco? Carson Wentz? Ryan Tannehill? Aidan O’Connell? I’d be happy with any of them. I’d rather bring back Case Keenum than Rodgers. I’d rather the Vikings have an 85-year old Fran Tarkenton back up J.J. McCarthy than Aaron Rodgers. 

It’s J.J. McCarthy’s time. 

Another Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft

With yesterday’s trade with the San Francisco 49ers for running back Jordan Mason, the Minnesota Vikings have set themselves up for a 2025 NFL Draft in which they have few glaring needs. The Vikings entered the offseason with obvious needs on the offensive and defensive lines. They also had needs at cornerback and running back. The additions of center Ryan Kelly and guard Will Fries addressed the needs on the interior of the offensive line. The additions of defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave addressed the needs on the defensive line. The re-signing of cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. was critical to defensive continuity. The signing of cornerback Isaiah Rodgers might end up being one of the best additions of the offseason. And cornerback was at a position of need. The player additions and retentions through the first week of free agency had the Vikings perhaps positioned to draft a running back in the first round. Despite re-signing Aaron Jones, the position was a need. Jones needed a partner in the backfield. That’s why the trade for Jordan Mason made so much sense. The Vikings sent a 2026 sixth-round pick to the 49ers for Mason. The teams also swapped Day 3 picks this year (a fifth from the Vikings  for a sixth from the 49ers). The 2026 sixth-round pick the Vikings sent to the 49ers was the pick they’d just received from the Houston Texans for Ed Ingram. Essentially the trade with the 49ers was a swap of Ed Ingram for Jordan Mason and an exchange of Day 3 picks this year. Mason should pair nicely with Jones. Running back might still be a need in the draft but the position is now more of a later round need. Perhaps a speedy running back with some unique receiving talent. 

The Vikings are set up nicely for the 2025 NFL Draft. Here’s another stab at the four picks they currently hold. 

1. Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

3. Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia

5. O’Donnell Fortune, CB, South Carolina

6. Marcus Yarns, RB, Delaware

Derrick Harmon has routinely been the pick at #24. It’s so hard to pass on the disruptive interior player. The Vikings bolstered the defensive front with Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. Both are on the wrong side of 30. They’d be outstanding mentors Harmon. 

Like Harmon on the defensive line, Tate Ratledge would be a talented, young addition on the offensive line. Perhaps, he even starts at left guard as a rookie. That’s the least set position on the offensive line. 

Come draft time, O’Donnell Fortune probably isn’t available in the fifth round. He’s an easy pick here. So is Marcus Yarns in the sixth round. 

Until the next one. 

Minnesota Vikings Depth Chart

The Minnesota Vikings were scheduled to lose nearly half of their 2024 roster. That situation promised an active offseason. Through the first week of free agency, the Vikings did not disappoint. Here’s a look at the Vikings depth chart after an eventful first week of the offseason.

Minnesota Vikings 2025 Depth Chart (62)

Offense (27)

Quarterbacks (2)

  9 J.J McCarthy

19 Brett Rypien

Running Backs (3)

33 Aaron Jones

32 Ty Chandler

36 Zavier Scott

Fullback (1)

30 C.J. Ham

Receivers (6)

18 Justin Jefferson

  3 Jordan Addison

83 Jalen Nailor

81 Lucky Jackson

82 Jeshaun Jones

89 Thayer Thomas

Tight Ends (2)

87 T.J. Hockenson

84 Josh Oliver

Offensive Linemen (13)

71 Christian Darrsisaw

64 Blake Brandel

     Ryan Kelly

     Will Fries

75 Brian O’Neill

56 Garrett Bradbury

78 Walter Rouse

65 Michael Jurgens

     Justin Skule

     Marcellus Johnson

72 Leroy Watson

     Trevor Reid

68 Henry Byrd

Defense (32) 

Defensive Linemen (8)

97 Harrison Phillips

     Jonathan Allen

     Javon Hargrave

61 Jalen Redmond

50 Levi Drake Rodriguez

94 Taki Taimani 

71 Jonathan Harris

91 Travis Bell 

Outside Linebackers (5)

58 Jonathan Greenard

43 Andrew Van Ginkel

15 Dallas Turner

59 Gabriel Murphy

98 Bo Richter

Inside Linebackers (4)

  0 Ivan Pace Jr.

51 Blake Cashman

     Eric Wilson

  6 Brian Asamoah

45 Max Tooley

Cornerbacks (10)

  7 Byron Murphy Jr.

  5 Mekhi Blackmon

  2 Isaiah Rodgers

29 Dwight McGlothern

36 NaJee Thompson

     Tavierre Thomas

25 Nahshon Wright

     Ambry Thomas

     Reddy Steward 

     Kahlef Hailassie

Safeties (5)

22 Harrison Smith

44 Josh Metellus

26 Theo Jackson

20 Jay Ward

     Bubba Bolden

Special Teams (3)

Kickers (1)

16 Will Reichard

Punter (1)

17 Ryan Wright

Long Snapper (1)

42 Andrew DePaola 

***

It only takes a glance to see that the Vikings still need a backup quarterback. Not Aaron Rodgers. Otherwise, the first week of signings have left this roster in pretty good shape. They really just need overall depth. There’s the rest of the offseason and the draft to deal with that. 

MInnesota Vikings Free Agent Tracker

The Minnesota Vikings have active through the first week of NFL free agency. With only four picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, much of the offseason’s reinforcements had to come through a modest to heavy spending spree. Here’s a look at the Vikings player movement so far.

Re-Signed:

Byron Murphy Jr., CB

Aaron Jones, RB

Theo Jackson, S

Ryan Wright, P

Signed:

Isaiah Rodgers, CB

Jonathan Allen, DT

Ryan Kelly, C

Will Fries, G

Javon Hargrave, DT

Tavierre Thomas, CB

Justin Skyler, OT

Bubba Bolden, S

Players Lost:

Camryn Bynum, S - Indianapolis Colts

Sam Darnold, QB - Seattle Seahawks

Daniel Jones, QB - Indianapolis Colts

Nick Mullens, QB - Jacksonville Jaguars

Patrick Jones, Edge - Carolina Panthers

Johnny Mundt, TE - Jacksonville Jaguars

Unsigned Vikings:

Cam Akers, RB

Jonathan Bullard, DT

Dan Feeney, C

Stephon Gilmore, CB

Shaq Griffin, CB

Kamu Grugier-Hill, LB

Fabian Moreau, CB

Brandon Powell, WR

David Quessenberry, OT

Dalton Risner, G

Cam Robinson, OT

Jerry Tillery, DT

Jihad Ward, Edge

***

The Vikings entered free agency with significant needs on the interiors of the offensive and defensive lines. The early signing flurry that brought in Ryan Kelly, Will Fries, Jonathan Allen, and Javon Hargrave aggressively addressed those needs. Needs remain at running back, cornerback, and general depth. The Vikings have done enough in free agency that the few picks they have in the draft might be enough to address any remaining needs. 

He’s Back!

The Minnesota Vikings have done some good things through the initial days of free agency. Solid additions. Solid re-signings. None of those made me as happy as hearing that Harrison Smith is returning for his 14th season. I accept that he’s much closer to the end of his fabulous career than he is to the start. I’m just not ready for the days when #22 isn’t on the field for the Vikings. Welcome back, Harrison Smith!

When it became clear that Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores would return for his third season, I figured that there was a good chance that Harrison Smith would return as well. Player and coach work well together. More importantly, they really enjoy working together. Still, Smith is a man of many interests. I hoped that he wasn’t but there was always a chance he was ready to spend more time with those interests. Technically, Smith was already under contract for the 2025 season. The contract had a league minimum base salary of $1.255 million but he would’ve had a $25 million base salary for 2026 become fully guaranteed if he were on the Vikings’ roster by this weekend. Those terms were essentially a placeholder for a new deal. Smith and the team decided to do that new deal. That deal is reportedly for $11 million. It’s a $10.25 million base with $750,000 in roster bonuses. There’s potential for another $3 million in incentives. 

Harrison Smith’s 14th season could be an historic cap to an already historic career. He’s played 192 regular season games for the Vikings. He needs 10 to surpass Scott Studwell on the team’s career list. If he plays in all 17 games in 2025, Smith will tie Carl Eller for the fourth-most in Vikings history. Harrison Smith has been brilliant each of his 13 seasons. If one wants to measure his career with statistics, he mingles with some of the very best in the history of the league. If Smith can equal in 2025 the three interceptions that he had last year, he’ll join the “40 interceptions, 20 sacks club.” Only Larry Wilson, Charles Woodson, and Ronde Barber are members of that exclusive club. Wilson, Woodson, and Barber are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Smith is already a member in the “30 interceptions, 20 sacks club.” That’s a club that only includes the following:

Larry Wilson

Charles Woodson

Ronde Barber

Brian Dawkins

LeRoy Butler

Rodney Harrison

Of those, only Rodney Harrison is the only member without a Gold Jacket and his argument for inclusion is heard annually. Harrison Smith is building a strong Hall of Fame argument of his own. I know that I’m a bit biased but I’ve never seen another safety that routinely does well all of things that Smith does. From front to back, side to side, he routinely makes an impact all over the field. Contemplating his great career is a time for another day. His retirement has been pushed to another day. Today, he’s back for another season. That’s a beautiful thing. Now, it’s time to secure that elusive Super Bowl ring.