Don’t Trust the So-Called Experts, Vikings are Primed for Big Season
Brett Peterson
|
The Minnesota Vikings fielded a 7-9 squad last season. Their defense was ranked 29th in the NFL, and the offensive line was absolutely atrocious. The Vikings offense did their best to keep them in the games, as they ranked borderline top 10 in every offensive category. 2020 did prove one thing, the Vikings have a budding superstar on their hands in Justin Jefferson, and he should only get BETTER in year two. The Vikings also get a variety of players back on the defensive side of the ball such as, Danielle Hunter, Michael Pierce, and Anthony. Those additions aren’t even factoring in the players Minnesota signed in free agency. This off-season proved that the organization still believes in this roster and is in win-now mode.
Free Agency and Draft Provided A+ Hauls
The Vikings made it obvious that they were focusing on the defense when it came to the free agency period. Minnesota’s first signing was DT Dalvin Tomlinson. The former NY Giant is a terrific run stopper and can also create some double teams in the middle, giving other players opportunities to make plays in the back field. The problem is, if the opposing team is looking to double Tomlinson, Michael Pierce is waiting on the other side. It’s a lose-lose situation for the other team’s offense. Look for the Vikings’ run defense to be GREATLY improved. The Vikings next big move was the signing of veteran CB Patrick Peterson. Peterson had a down-year in 2020 but his fit in Mike Zimmer’s defense is perfect. The veteran corner will also help young guys like Cam Dantzler, Harrison Hand, and maybe Jeff Gladney. The Vikings also brought back Mac Alexander to be their nickel/slot corner. Alexander was a very solid corner in his first stint with the Vikings, and he looks to continue that trend in his second appearance as a Viking.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Vikings were more quiet in free agency. They re-signed a few of their in-house players, and also added OG/C Mason Cole from the Cardinals. Cole has been a starter for the Cardinals the last few seasons, so his experience and depth is much needed. Minnesota also let Kyle Rudolph walk in free agency so expect a big year from Irv Smith Jr. The Vikings focused heavily on the offensive line in the draft adding presumable starters in Christian Darrisaw and Wyatt Davis. They also added some valuable play makers with the selections of Kene Nwangwu and Ihmir Smith-Marsette.
Offense Ready for Take off
Kirk Cousins is once again ready to lead a top scoring offense. The Vikings’ weapons will once again be some of the best in the league with Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, and Dalvin Cook leading the way. Jefferson is ready for stardom. Cook is one of the most electric players in the league, and the offensive line will be the best it’s been in who knows how long. If everything comes together, there’s no reason the Vikings shouldn’t have a top 5 offense at the end of the year.
Defense Set to be Greatly Improved
Danielle Hunter is back. If Hunter is anything like he was before his neck injury, the Vikings’ defense is automatically better. Add Michael Pierce, and Anthony Barr back in the mix coming of an opt-out and injury, the Vikings defense looks vastly improved on paper. They’ve added studs in free agency, and added a dynamic linebacker and athletic defensive ends in the draft. Chaz Surratt, Patrick Jones, and Janarius Robinson will all be rookie contributors from day one.
Many analysts are predicting the Vikings to be a border-line playoff team. The Vikings were one game out of the playoffs last season. And they are drastically improved heading into 2021. The Vikings are primed for a deep playoff run this season, and we’re here for the ride.