The Minnesota Vikings wrapped up a strong 2024 regular season with a 14-3 record, establishing themselves as one of the NFL’s top teams. However, a crucial Week 17 loss to the Detroit Lions knocked them out of first place in the NFC North, costing them the top seed and a Wild Card round bye. Instead, they entered the playoffs as the No. 5 seed and were quickly eliminated by the Los Angeles Rams in a lopsided Wild Card game, ending their season earlier than expected — a surprising outcome for GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell.
Looking to rebound in 2025, the Vikings targeted their biggest weaknesses — the offensive and defensive lines. They bolstered the O-line by signing center Ryan Kelly (2 years, $18 million) and guard Will Fries (5 years, $88 million), both formerly of the Colts. On the defensive side, they added interior strength with DTs Javon Hargrave (2 years, $30 million) and Jonathan Allen (3 years, $51 million), previously of the 49ers and Commanders, respectively.
Heading into the NFL Draft on April 24, the Vikings have limited draft capital, owning just four picks: one each in the first (No. 24 overall), third, fifth, and sixth rounds. While they could stand pat and select the best player available at 24, a trade-down scenario is a real possibility. Dropping down could net them multiple picks — potentially a second-rounder and two more later-round selections — helping them add much-needed depth across the roster.
Thanks to their aggressive free agency, Minnesota doesn’t have to draft based on need in Round 1. However, their top remaining needs are in the secondary and wide receiver depth. The cornerback group, led by Isaiah Rodgers, Mekhi Blackmon, and Byron Murphy, lacks reliable depth. The tragic death of 2023 fourth-round pick Khyree Jackson further depleted that position.
Veteran safety Harrison Smith returns, though he’s aging, and while strong safety Josh Metellus plays a key role in Brian Flores’ defense, adding a potential long-term replacement for Smith would be wise.
At wide receiver, Jefferson and Addison form a dynamic duo, and Jalen Nailor has shown flashes, but there’s little depth behind them. Expect Minnesota to target a receiver in the draft and explore undrafted free agents to round out the room.
Despite a tough ending to 2024, the Vikings’ offseason moves show they’re ready to reload and compete — with the draft offering a chance to fill in the remaining gaps.
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