The Vikings Basically Told Us Their Draft Plan
The Minnesota Vikings have already begun reshaping their roster to create cap flexibility for free agency. After parting ways with some contributors, the resulting roster holes immediately become priorities the Vikings will likely address in April’s Draft.
Minnesota also enters the Draft in a favorable position with extra mid-round capital for the first time in a while, giving them the opportunity to address many more positions than they did a year ago.
Defensive Tackle
At defensive tackle, the Vikings made splash moves last offseason when they acquired former Pro Bowlers Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen. This offseason, both veterans are in the process of being fired. Though they didn’t live up to the expectations, they still played a whopping 1,349 defensive snaps that now have to be replaced.
In-house, the Vikings have 2024 7th-rounder Levi Drake Rodriguez and 2025 5th-rounder Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins. Sure, both could climb up the depth chart and play more next to starter Jalen Redmond, but even in the best-case scenario that they are ready, the Vikings would still need multiple reinforcements inside.
There’s a good chance the front office will address the matter in free agency and in the Draft. In this year’s class, there’s no sure-fire superstar at the defensive tackle position, but Minnesota would likely be out of those sweepstakes anyway with pick 18.
Caleb Banks (Florida), Peters Woods (Clemson), Kayden McDonald (Ohio State), and Lee Hunter (Texas Tech) have been linked to the organization via mock drafts, but they would likely require the Vikings to spend the top pick.
Countless defensive tackle prospects can be found on Day 3 of the Draft, especially those that profile as run-stuffers, generally don’t get as much attention, and might be available later. The Vikings could use exactly one of those and it might not cost a premium pick.
Running Back
The situation at running back is comparable, as the Vikings are a guy or two short following Aaron Jones‘ expected release. Jones was the top rusher for the club in back-to-back seasons, but he isn’t getting any younger and injuries have piled up over the years.
Jordan Mason, who was acquired via trade a year ago, remains on the team. In theory, the Vikings could promote him to unquestioned RB1, but a committee back should still be hired either in the Draft or in free agency.
With Jones, the Vikings are also scheduled to lose both depth player Ty Chandler. Last year’s RB3 Zavier Scott is expected to return. Neither has shown enough to be considered a strong candidate for a high workload.
The Vikings’ rushing attack also lacked explosive plays last season, finishing in the bottom half of the league in runs of 20+ yards. Adding a young back with burst and open-field acceleration could complement Mason’s physical downhill style and give Kevin O’Connell more versatility on early downs.
A rookie contract at running back would also help offset cap spending at other positions.
Minnesota hasn’t drafted a running back since 2023, when DeWayne McBride joined the 7th round and it’s time for an infusion of youth. Outside of Notre Dame star Jeremiyah Love, this year’s running back class lacks elite blue-chip talent, but there should still be some intriguing backs that fit the profile O’Connell is looking for.
Drafting for need doesn’t always guarantee immediate production, but Minnesota’s situation makes these positions difficult to ignore. Defensive tackle rotations require multiple contributors to stay fresh across a 17-game season, and running back has quietly become one of the league’s most replaceable positions when paired with a strong offensive system.
The Vikings don’t necessarily need stars — they need cost-controlled contributors who can handle meaningful snaps early. That combination of affordability and opportunity makes both positions ideal targets for mid-round investments, especially for a team trying to remain competitive while managing long-term financial flexibility.
Editor’s Note: Information from PFF, Over The Cap, and Sports Reference helped with this article.