The 2024 Minnesota Vikings season has ended in yet another disappointing fashion.
While there’s plenty of blame to go around for why the team isn’t playing next week, the front office and coaching staff must work together to improve this team for 2025.
Here are some moves the Vikings should consider to put them in a better position to contend next season.
Move No. 1: Do NOT bring Sam Darnold back
Sam Darnold showed in the final two games of the season that he is not the solution at quarterback. While he was a solid backup for most of the year, he faltered under pressure and returned to his former struggles. With no hope for trade compensation, the Vikings should let Darnold go, hoping for a compensatory draft pick in 2026, and start looking towards the future with J.J. McCarthy.
Move No. 2: Sign two top free-agent guards
The playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams exposed the weaknesses of Minnesota’s offensive line. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah must prioritize upgrading the line, which has been neglected in recent years. Signing top-tier free agents like Trey Smith, along with another solid guard, would give the Vikings a much-needed boost in 2025, especially with a young franchise quarterback at the helm.
Move No. 3: Cut or trade Garrett Bradbury
Garrett Bradbury’s time in Minnesota is likely up. While he showed improvement in 2022, he’s regressed since then, struggling against larger defensive tackles. It’s time to move on and give Michael Jurgens a shot. Adding two quality guards could also help make any center more serviceable, so the Vikings should cut or trade Bradbury for whatever they can get.
Move No. 4: Revamp the run scheme
The Vikings have struggled to run the ball consistently under head coach Kevin O’Connell. To fix this, O’Connell needs to change his approach, ditching the current scheme for something new and more effective. Even coaches like Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan have moved away from similar schemes, and it’s time for the Vikings to follow suit.
Move No. 5: Sign a top free-agent cornerback
With Stephon Gilmore, Shaq Griffin, and Byron Murphy Jr. set to hit free agency, the Vikings need to bolster their cornerback depth. While Murphy should be re-signed after his Pro Bowl season, the Vikings need to find a strong running mate for him. D.J. Reed, Charvarius Ward, or even Jaire Alexander (if the Packers cut him) could be solid options to strengthen the secondary.
Move No. 6: Draft a running back on Day 1 or Day 2
The Vikings cannot enter 2025 with the same running back group as in 2024. While Aaron Jones has been effective when healthy, the team needs to add depth behind him. Players like Omarion Hampton (North Carolina) or Kaleb Johnson (Iowa) would fit well in Minnesota’s system. The Vikings cannot rely on Cam Akers and Ty Chandler as their only backups.
BONUS HOT TAKE: Replace Brian Flores with Robert Saleh
The Vikings should let Brian Flores pursue a head coaching job this offseason. His defensive schemes have been figured out by elite offensive minds, and Flores has struggled to make necessary adjustments. His pride may prevent him from evolving, making it time to explore a fresh direction with a coach like Robert Saleh.
Brian Flores
Leave a Reply