The Minnesota Vikings have yet to decide whether to place the franchise tag on Sam Darnold before Tuesday’s deadline. While the quarterback situation remains the top priority for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, the team is also focusing on other crucial tasks.
Beyond the quarterback position, the Vikings’ most pressing needs are along the lines. In 2024, the team exceeded expectations in nearly every position, except for their offensive and defensive line play, particularly at the two guard spots on offense and defensive tackle on defense. Over the next couple of months, as the NFL enters free agency (starting March 12) and prepares for the draft (April 24-27), the Vikings are determined to strengthen their interior lines, a goal that has become a priority since the current regime took over in 2022.
According to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, the Vikings are already targeting top defensive tackles, including Milton Williams (Eagles) and Javon Hargrave (49ers), who are among the most sought-after players in free agency.
The key takeaway from Lewis’ reporting is that Kwesi and defensive coordinator Brian Flores are committed to improving the Vikings’ interior defense this offseason. They are not aiming for just one major acquisition, but multiple upgrades—starting with the top two defensive tackles on the market, both of whom are known for their ability to pressure quarterbacks from the inside.
Vikings Targeting Top Free Agent Defensive Tackle, Milton Williams
Milton Williams, ranked as the fourth-best overall free agent by The Athletic after the NFL Combine, is the top interior defensive lineman available this offseason. At just 26 years old, Williams is the youngest among the top defensive tackle options.
Williams’ durability has been one of his standout traits, having played in all but one game of the 68 contests the Philadelphia Eagles have played since drafting him in 2021. Over four seasons, he has recorded 11.5 sacks, 132 tackles, and 25 tackles for loss. While his run-stopping ability was subpar last season (a 43.1 run defense grade), his pass-rushing prowess is undeniable. Williams posted a remarkable 90.4 pass rush grade in 2024, ranking second among all interior defenders.
- Milton Williams
Vikings Also Eyeing Javon Hargrave
While the Vikings are primarily focused on Williams, they are also interested in Javon Hargrave, the second-highest-ranked defensive tackle on the market. Hargrave, who is 32 years old, has had a successful career, with stops at Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and San Francisco, earning Pro Bowl honors in his first season with both the Eagles and 49ers. The Vikings hope to see him maintain that pattern of success if they sign him.
While it’s possible that the Vikings could pursue both Williams and Hargrave, don’t count on it—signing both would be a bold move, but one that could drastically improve their interior defensive line.
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