5 Most Intriguing Minnesota Vikings Players
5. Blake Brandel, C
The run of injuries that wrecked the offensive line last season forced some players to step in at unfamiliar positions. One of those players was Blake Brandel. Since his selection in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Brandel has played about every offensive line position but center. He entered the league as a tackle. He started 17 games in 2024 at left guard. He’s been a steady and versatile football player for the Vikings. Last season, injuries forced him to start at center against the Cleveland Browns. His first snap in that game was first snap at center. Ever. His play gave coaches the idea that he could do the job full time. When Ryan Kelly retired this offseason, center appeared to become one of the team’s biggest needs. It’s possible that center became one of the team’s biggest needs only to those outside spectacular TCO Performance Center. I’m sure Vikings decision-makers considered a few of the high-end center that were available in the 2026 NFL Draft. They were available into Day 3 of the draft. Apparently none rated above the center they already had on the roster. Brandel will provide some size at the pivot position that the Vikings have lacked for too long. He’s already shown his position versatility. He might not raise the ceiling of the offensive line but he will raise the floor. He has this season to show whether he can be the Vikings long-term answer at center.
4. Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy, QBs
I didn’t want to include the quarterbacks but I have to include the quarterbacks. I’m really looking forward to this quarterback competition. I’m not looking forward to the tabloid-like reporting that will dominate the coverage of it.
3. Harrison Smith, S
Harrison Smith makes the list of intriguing players and he isn’t even on the roster. For now. Will he return for his 15th season? It’s July. Veterans report to training camp in two weeks. If he hasn’t publicly made the decision yet, he’s returning. At least, that’s how I see it. Maybe, it’s just hope. I’m not ready for a Vikings defense without #22 on the field.
2. Chuck Demmings, CB
I really could’ve picked any of the Vikings draft picks. I’m singling out Chuck Demmings simply because I believe that he’s going to become one of my favorite Vikings players for all of his, hopefully, very long career in Minnesota. He’s an explosive, natural athlete and probably would’ve been a first- or second-round pick if he hadn’t played at itty-bitty Stephen F. Austin. He could’ve jumped to a big-time school but stayed loyal to the itty-bitty school that was always loyal to him. He’s that sort of character and he is a character. He’s a fun person and fun player and I can’t wait to see him on the field. Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers are solid starters. James Pierre was signed in free agency to form a solid corner trio. Despite three corners in his way, I believe that Demmings will play his way on to the field for scattered defensive snaps. I also believe that he’s the Vikings future CB1.
1. Jauan Jennings, WR
The Vikings weren’t very active in free agency. One could say that they were selective. One of the players they signed was Jauan Jennings. At the start of free agency, he was considered to be one of the pricey players on the market. For whatever reason, he was still available after the draft. The Vikings signed Jennings for only $8 million. Incentives could boost it to $13 million. That’s a bargain for one of the most intriguing receivers in the league. In Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, the Vikings have one of the best receiver duos in the league. Jefferson, Addison, and Jennings are the best receiver trio in the league. Jennings brings a physical presence to the offense. Some might call it a nasty presence. The Vikings offense can use a little bit of nasty. He’s a terrific blocker. He excels on third down and in the red zone. I’m excited to see a lot of Vikings players on the field. Honestly, I’m excited to see all of the Vikings players on the field. Jauan Jennings is among the players I’m most excited to see.
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