Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Entering 2024
With the 2024 NFL season right around the corner, it’s a good time to nominate Minnesota’s best player entering the campaign. The expectations for the club are low, which could be a chance to make some noise as an under-the-radar team. Still, the betting odds foresee a last-place finish in the NFC North and a high draft pick in April 2025.
Ranking the 10 Best Vikings
Please note: the rankings are subjective.
10. Jordan Addison
This spot could’ve gone to various players who will be snubbed.
Regardless, Jordan Addison was exceptional in his rookie season, producing 911 receiving yards and ten touchdowns. His deep-threat ability, speed, and receiver instincts make him an outstanding WR2. A year-two jump is possible, perhaps even likely.
9. Harrison Phillips
The passing defense has been an issue in the Twin Cities, but nobody can complain about the run defense. Harrison Phillips is a major reason why. Most teams struggle to rush the ball against the Vikings.
The 2022 free-agent acquisition is possibly the most underrated player on the team because he doesn’t make the splashy plays, but he does make plays.
8. Andrew Van Ginkel
Pass rusher Andrew Van Ginkel has been an unsung acquisition in free agency. Brian Flores drafted him in Miami, and years later, he will work alongside Van Ginkel again but as the defensive coordinator.
The defender possesses an endless motor and a versatile skill set. His ability to rush the passer and drop into coverage will help Flores dial up his blitzes.
7. Brian O’Neill
Only Harrison Smith and C.J. Ham have spent more time with the Vikings than the 2018 second-round pick. He elevated the bad offensive line for years.
No player has been as consistent as the 2021 Pro Bowler, handling pass-rushers on the right side of the offensive line. Despite his partially torn Achilles in Week 17 of the 2022 season, he played well throughout the 2023 season and even started a game after breaking a bone in his foot.
6. Aaron Jones
The longtime Packers running back has been one of the best halfbacks in the league for roughly half a decade, and the Vikings hope he can replicate that success in purple.
Jones is a shifty runner who fits well into O’Connell’s zone run offense, and his pass-catching ability will help quarterback Sam Darnold. At age 29, a decline is possible, but his final games in 2023 were encouraging when he eclipsed 100 rushing yards in five straight contests.
5. Josh Metellus
The Swiss Army knife is a key to Brian Flores’ defense, as he can line up all over the field. His versatility is remarkable, and he will continue to be a foundational part of Minnesota’s defensive unit.
Metellus turned from a special teams ace to a defensive star and leader of the organization within a year. He racked up 116 tackles, 2.5 sacks, one interception, and four forced fumbles in 2023.
4. Jonathan Greenard
Outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard has the impossible task of replacing Danielle Hunter after his nine-year stretch with the club ended in free agency.
The good news is that he was productive against the pass (12.5 sacks) and impressive against the run in his breakout season with the Texans. Greenard is still an under-the-radar player in the NFL, but he possesses the talent to change that.
3. T.J. Hockenson
Tight end T.J. Hockenson will miss the first four games of the season as he was stashed on the PUP list. A Week 5 return is possible.
His presence has fundamentally changed Minnesota’s offense, as he is a key player in running plays and a frequent target in the passing game. He is the perfect complement to the dynamic outside receivers.
2. Christian Darrisaw
Left tackle Christian Darrisaw signed his extension early, making the deal team-friendly. Still, he is a highly-paid player, and he deserves every penny. The 2021 first-rounder is a dominant force in the running game and provides time for his quarterbacks.
He is tied to the team through the 2029 season, and it’s time he gets some recognition league-wide after ending up as a snub from the Pro Bowl in back-to-back years.
1. Justin Jefferson
What can I say about the receiver that hasn’t already been said? It’s unlikely there’s anything relevant that needs to be added. So, let’s repeat the obvious.
Justin Jefferson is the face of the franchise and arguably the best player at his position. His well-deserved but record-breaking contract extension didn’t cause any headaches (especially compared to other wideouts around the league). His infectious personality has been fun to watch throughout the years.
An elite receiver without any diva characteristics is rare, but the Vikings found one. Barring injury, he will produce his annual 1,000 yards, and he will likely come close to the 2,000 yards.
Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Reference helped with this article.
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Janik Eckardt is a football fan who likes numbers and stats. The Vikings became his favorite team despite their quarterback at the time, Christian Ponder. He is a walking soccer encyclopedia, loves watching sitcoms, and prefers Classic rock over other genres. Follow him on Twitter if you like the Vikings: @JanikEckardt