The Minnesota Vikings faced the departure of star pass rusher Danielle Hunter last offseason but managed to adapt and generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks through various strategies. As a result, the idea of potentially parting ways with rookie Dallas Turner a year later shouldn’t be as daunting.
It’s important to note that no such move is currently on the horizon. However, the Vikings may need to accumulate more draft capital after trading multiple picks last spring to move up slightly in the first round and secure both Turner (No. 17 overall) and quarterback J.J. McCarthy (No. 10 overall). Interestingly, both players could become trade assets heading into the 2025 NFL season, thanks to Minnesota’s successful free agency moves the previous year.
Quarterback Sam Darnold led the team to 14 wins, throwing for 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns, while pass rusher Jonathan Greenard recorded 12 sacks and earned a Pro Bowl nod. Edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel also had a strong season with 11.5 sacks, securing second-team All-Pro honors. The debate over whether to keep Darnold and trade McCarthy, or retain McCarthy and move on from Darnold, is a separate issue. However, trading Turner might not be a significant setback for the Vikings, depending on the return they receive in a potential deal.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell explored the Vikings’ potential role as a facilitator in a blockbuster trade involving Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, who has expressed a desire to leave his current situation. While Garrett is a high-caliber player, his potential cost—possibly as much as two first-round picks—makes him an unlikely fit for the Vikings, especially given their current roster and financial considerations.
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