Minnesota

Minnesota won 14 games in 2024 but dropped the season finale at Detroit, and the division title, and then went on the road in the first round of the playoffs and lost again. The culprit in the season ending crash to Earth was a combination of poor QB play and the inability to protect the passer. Sam Darnold left via free agency and the team has now been turned over to JJ McCarthy. The Vikings' fortunes will ultimately depend on McCarthy's maturation after missing his rookie season with injury. But Minnesota must improve the offensive line after the group got obliterated by the Lions and Rams to end last season. G Ed Ingram was traded to the Texans in the off season and Pro Bowl center Ryan Kelly was signed via free agency but the Vikings' work is not yet done. Tyler Booker (Alabama), Donovan Jackson (Ohio State), Grey Zabel (North Dakota State), or Jonah Savaiinaea (Arizona) could make tempting selections with the 24th pick later this month. The Vikings need to use multiple picks on the OL but could also use a WR with size to line up on the outside opposite Justin Jefferson, allowing Jordan Addison to exploit slot coverage. A young safety with range would also make sense to use a mid round pick on later this month in Green Bay.