Minnesota started five defensive backs as part Brian Flores' defense in 2024, three cornerbacks and two safeties. All three of those corners and one safety are headed for free agency in less than two weeks, while the Vikings must restructure Harrison Smith's contract to avoid owing him $25 million in 2026 if they want him back for another year.
The Vikings have ties to Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, who is seeking a trade from his current NFL home.
Oakland Golden Grizzlies (13-16, 10-8 Horizon League) at Milwaukee Panthers (19-10, 12-6 Horizon League) Milwaukee; Thursday, 8 p.m. EST BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Panthers -5.5; over/under is 146.5 BOTTOM LINE: Oakland faces Milwaukee after Allen David Mukeba Jr.
Oakland Golden Grizzlies (13-16, 10-8 Horizon League) at Milwaukee Panthers (19-10, 12-6 Horizon League) Milwaukee; Thursday, 8 p.m. EST BOTTOM LINE: Oakland visits Milwaukee after Allen David Mukeba Jr.
The Vikings will be looking to improve on the interior offensive and defensive lines. Defensive tackle should be their priority in Round 1.
For the Vikings, they are the team the entire NFL is watching as the franchise tag window opens up because of the tough decision they face.
Minnesota Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah talked about the team's quarterback situation between Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy on Tuesday at the NFL Combine. Darnold is eligible for free agency, and McCarthy's rookie season ended abruptly due to a knee injury.