What an offseason it has been for the Minnesota Vikings, as they put all their chips on the table for what could be either a magical or disastrous season.
The Vikings spent nearly $300 million adding talent on offense and defense, with the hope of securing a franchise quarterback in J.J. McCarthy, the roster he needs to have a successful first season on the field with the Vikings. From repairing the offensive line to rebuilding the defensive line and secondary, Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was not afraid to make the necessary calls.
Adofo-Mensah's work in the offseason paid off as CBS Sports writer Josh Edwards ranked the Vikings third in best offseasons in the NFL.
"The offensive line had been an issue against the Rams in the playoffs. Perhaps the Vikings over-corrected with massive contracts for center Ryan Kelly and offensive guard Will Fries -- the two played a combined 15 games in 2024 -- as well as first-round selection Donovan Jackson. Second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy should feel protected behind the new-look unit, which also welcomes back injured left tackle Christian Darrisaw.
Potentially the biggest boon of the entire operation was the retention of defensive coordinator Brian Flores, whose unit exceeded expectations a year ago. He is now graced with proven veterans Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen, which allows last year's starters to serve in more suitable roles."
The Minnesota Vikings are set up for success for the future, but still have one lingering question
The additions of Kelly, Fries, and Jackson only enhance a Vikings line that needed some help. There's a nice balance of young talent with Jackson and veteran experience coming from Kelly and Fries that will compliment the offensive line well.
Hargrave and Allen's signings on defense were significant, but the moves Vikings fans should closely monitor are those of cornerbacks Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah. How Rodgers and Okudah play could make the difference in a secondary that was ranked near the bottom in pass defense.
The obvious question with the Vikings is how McCarthy will perform in 2025. It's his first season as the starter, and he has all the talent in the world around him with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and Aaron Jones are there.
This is a roster built for a playoff run as long as everyone can stay healthy. McCarthy also included that his play and his health could make or break a critical 2025 season in Minnesota.
