The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2024 NFL Draft following a very disappointing season and needing to replace Kirk Cousins at quarterback. General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has a strong core of young talent already in place, but finding their franchise QB will determine their future success. Let’s delve into the top 5 positions the Vikings should prioritize in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Minnesota Vikings Positions to Address in the NFL Draft
The upcoming draft offers a chance to address lingering weaknesses and ensure their ship remains on track for NFC North contention. The departure of quarterback Kirk Cousins leaves no questions as to which position the Minnesota Vikings will target first in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. But they have plenty of other needs as well. So here’s a closer look at the top 5 spots that the Vikings must address to solidify their roster and make a serious push to retain control of the NFC North.
Quarterback
It’s no secret that Minnesota is in the hunt for their future franchise QB and that their first pick in the upcoming draft will be a quarterback. It’s arguably the most important position in all of sports, definitely in the NFL, and one that the Vikings haven’t had to worry about for some time. Their first, second, and third priority this draft is quarterback.
Guard
Protecting their new franchise quarterback and creating running lanes for Aaron Jones is paramount to the Vikings’ future success. Their offensive line was inconsistent in 2023, particularly on the interior, and they currently only have three guards on the roster. Beefing up their offensive line is the best way to ensure an easier path to success for their offense.
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Safety
Minnesota’s weakest defensive attribute last season was its pass defense. They’ve addressed this area with multiple signings at cornerback during free agency but safety hasn’t been touched. All three of last season’s starters return but the depth behind them is non-existent. Adding another option in case of injury would be a smart move.
Wide Receiver
The Vikings have a dynamic duo at wide-out with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison but K.J. Osborn’s departure leaves them without a true third option. All-Pro Justin Jefferson is an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season, and there is a good chance he will sign elsewhere. Minnesota needs to add more depth on the outside and prepare for the potential loss of JJ.
Running Back
Aaron Jones jumping ship from Green Bay was a huge pick-up for Minnesota. However, he’s only signed for a single season, and the RB room has just one player, Ty Chandler, signed past the upcoming year. The Vikings would be wise to add depth, and more importantly, a player or two that’ll be around for the next few seasons.
Minnesota Vikings Offseason Additions
The Minnesota Vikings’ offseason has begun by replacing multiple starters. Their biggest splash was made by adding former Green Bay Packers RB Aaron Jones. Most of their moves have flown a bit under the radar outside of him. See their most impactful offseason moves here.
Minnesota Vikings 2024 NFL Draft Picks
The Minnesota Vikings have the 11th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and have two first-round draft picks. Seven of their nine overall selections will come in rounds four through seven. Check out all their 2024 NFL Draft picks below.