Why the Vikings Can Turn Things Around in 2026
The Minnesota Vikings had a tough 2025 season, going 9-8 and missing the playoffs after reaching them the year prior. The team decided to go in a different direction at quarterback with J.J. McCarthy, a decision that proved costly. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson was unable to create as much of an impact as he has since joining the league, which only worsened the offense for Minnesota. The four-time Pro Bowler only had two touchdowns, his lowest number since joining the league in 2020. Looking ahead to 2026, major changes were made in the offseason that can ensure 2026 will turn things around as the Vikings chase their first Super Bowl title.
Quarterback Kyler Murray will seemingly take the reins this season and hopes to be the answer, signing a one-year contract and parting ways with the Arizona Cardinals. Murray will still compete with McCarthy for the starting position, but it’s expected that he will ultimately have the spot. This decision will also be in hopes of reigniting Jefferson and building a new connection with the quarterback, so he is able to return to form. Defensively, Minnesota added cornerback James Pierre from the Pittsburgh Steelers to strengthen the defensive back room. Through the NFL Draft, the Vikings selected defensive lineman Caleb Banks with their first-round selection. The former Florida Gator shone in the NFL Combine, running a 5.04-second 40-yard dash, which is freakish speed for his 327-pound frame. Despite struggling last season, the pass rush was never the issue, leading the league with 60 total sacks throughout the year. Banks will only make the defensive line more dangerous for opposing offenses.
Upgrades were made for Minnesota, but their biggest test will be the schedule they face. They’ll kick off their season at home facing division rival the Green Bay Packers, a major playoff contender. While their divisional games will already be tough challenges, they’ll also take on the Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, and the New England Patriots. Fortunately for the Vikings, the schedule begins to become grueling towards the middle of the season, giving them time to work out any kinks with Murray and the offense. So far, head coach Kevin O’Connell has never gone two seasons in a row without missing out on the playoffs. Minnesota has all the tools to not only make the postseason once again, but also make a deeper run and compete for a Super Bowl Championship.
