Dad, and co-host of the Onebar & Lupagus Show, lover of cheese and Jr. Mints, who oozes purple from all orifices
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Articles by Nik Edlund
4 Vikings roster spots that could be won or lost in the preseason finale
After an eventful last few months, the final matchup of the 2026 preseason is here for the Minnesota Vikings, and the team is even closer to their Week 1 showdown against the Green Bay Packers on September 13. Heading into Friday's preseason finale against the Denver Broncos, most of the spots on Minnesota's roster are pretty set in stone, but there are still a handful up for grabs.
4 Vikings dark horses who could force their way onto the final 2026 roster
Minnesota Vikings training camp 2026 is well underway. There have been plenty of players who are generating buzz with their solid play every single day. Some of these players were expected to show out in camp and may be rookies whom the team needs to produce in year one, while others are veterans who just bring it every single year. There have also been some players who have unexpectedly performed at high levels.
3 new Vikings whose Minnesota careers could end before they start
The Minnesota Vikings' preseason is underway with training camp now several days in, and many players are vying for a spot on the 53-man roster. Some are rookies who are looking to get their NFL careers off to a hot start, and others are vested veterans looking to keep their NFL dreams alive. The majority of these drafted and signed players end up on the roster, but not all.
4 Vikings concerns nobody is talking about before training camp
Training camp 2026 is on the horizon for the Minnesota Vikings. The team won five games to close out 2025 and has addressed a plethora of needs via free agency and the draft. Most Vikings fans are cautiously optimistic about the team's chances this year, but even the most diehard realize there are concerns with the squad. The Vikings do have some obvious issues heading into the season, but others are flying under the radar.
5 Vikings whose Super Bowl win elsewhere would devastate Minnesota
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5 Vikings whose Super Bowl win elsewhere would devastate Minnesota
Congratulations to the New York Knicks and former Minnesota Timberwolves forward Karl Anthony Towns on winning the NBA Title earlier this month. Towns is the latest Minnesota star athlete to join, the likes of David Ortiz, Kevin Garnett, and most recently, Sam Darnold, who have gone on to win it all after spending part of their careers playing in the Twin Cities.
5 Vikings whose Super Bowl win elsewhere would devastate Minnesota
Football (U.S.) 15 hours ago Caleb Banks Has an Incredibly High Ceiling purpleptsd.com - Brevan Bane • 15h With the 18th overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings selected Florida IDL Caleb Banks.
Nolan Teasley's Vikings authority comes with one massive catch
The Minnesota Vikings finally found their general manager with the hiring of Nolan Teasley from the Seattle Seahawks. When first reported, it was said that, with Teasley on board, the Vikings would be using a triangle-of-authority hierarchy to run the team. That notion was shot down in Teasley's introductory press conference by owner Mark Wilf. He flat-out said that both Rob Brzezinski and Kevin O'Connell will directly report to Teasley, who will have final say over the roster.
4 Vikings who could become Minnesota's biggest surprises in 2026
Free agency is over, and so is the 2026 NFL Draft. This year's version of the Minnesota Vikings is beginning to take shape, and as the final form continues to incubate, certain expectations and hopes about various players begin to emerge. It's fun to project different lines for players to hit, and those players could definitely achieve that. Some players will probably have less of an impact than in years prior due to a new face jumping them on the depth chart.
5 biggest questions hanging over the Vikings before OTAs ramp up
The Minnesota Vikings kicked off their organized team activities recently, and these are the first times the 2026 version of the team is taking the field. It's one of the most exciting parts of the spring. The Vikings have had a busy offseason where they moved on from a lot of veterans, either by releasing or trading, and added plenty of new blood via free agency and the draft. While those changes bring excitement, they also bring a handful of questions.
3 Vikings who quietly came out as winners after the 2026 NFL Draft
While players would never publicly admit it, there had to be plenty of nervousness among a handful of current Minnesota Vikings when the 2026 NFL Draft commenced last week. This nervousness has to do with job security and whether said player will be facing new or more competition for their spot on the 53-man roster.
4 UDFAs who might force shocking Vikings roster decisions in 2026
The 2026 NFL Draft is over. The Minnesota Vikings filled plenty of holes on their roster with the nine players they selected. After the draft concluded, the Vikings' front office was busy and signed 19 players who weren't chosen. In past years, a handful of these undrafted players have not just made the practice squad, but also have made the 53-man roster. Who are the four who have the best shot to achieve that accomplishment in 2026?
4 best available players for the Vikings on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft
The Vikings have filled some holes so far in the 2026 NFL Draft. They took a big swing on defensive tackle Caleb Banks in the first round, and if he stays healthy and reaches his potential, it will be looked at as one of the biggest steals in recent history. On the second day, the Vikings filled needs at linebacker and offensive tackle, double-dipped at defensive tackle, and added a safety.
Best available players Vikings could target on Day 2 of 2026 NFL Draft
The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft is history, and the Minnesota Vikings got their man when they shockingly took former Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks with the 18th overall pick. He'll be a big boost on Minnesota's defensive line, assuming he stays healthy, and while the team is definitely excited about that impact, there are still a lot of holes that need to be addressed on this roster. Safety, cornerback, center, and running back are all major areas of need.
5 blue chip prospects who could fall to the Vikings at pick No. 18 at the 2026 NFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and the Minnesota Vikings are finalizing their plans for who they may be selecting with the 18th overall pick. This is a draft that isn't viewed as being especially heavy at the top in talent, with the sweet spot being around the late second round to early fourth round area. That being said, there are a handful of players considered "blue chip" talent.
Vikings’ Top 30 visits might be hiding a bold front office move
The 2026 NFL Draft is almost here, and the Minnesota Vikings are finalizing their draft board. A big part of that is bringing in players for the annual Top 30 visits. This is where teams invite prospects to their facility to work out, medically evaluate them, and get to know them at a little more personal level. Prospects who are considered first round taletns all the way down to undrafted options are invited.
5 reaches Vikings could shock fans with at pick No. 18 in NFL Draft
Minnesota Vikings interim general manager Rob Brzezinski has publicly stated that the team is going to take the best player available when they are on the clock in the 2026 NFL Draft later this month. That is one of the most canned responses a general manager can give, and a team rarely sticks to this philosophy. A prime example is the Vikings selecting Donovan Jackson with the 24th overall pick a year ago.
4 best available prospects Vikings can’t afford to pass at pick No. 18
The 2026 NFL Draft will be here before we know it. The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in a unique position as they don't have a general manager in place. They are rolling with longtime executive Rob Brzezinski after firing Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and it's anyone's guess who the team will select with their first pick.
Dillon Thieneman keeps getting tied to Vikings and it’s not by accident
The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and for the Minnesota Vikings, a name that is mocked to them ad nauseam is Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman. Just about every mock draft, from the smallest draft content creators to the faces who rock the TV on ESPN and NFL Network, has Thieneman going to the Vikings, always deeming him a "perfect fit" in Brian Flores's scheme.
4 sleeper options for the Minnesota Vikings at pick 18 in the 2026 NFL Draft
The NFL Draft is less than three weeks away, and the picture of what the Minnesota Vikings are going to do with the 18th overall pick is starting to become clearer. Mock drafts have listed numerous players over the last few months, with positions of need like safety, cornerback, and defensive tackle often being common selections. Lately, it's hard to look at a mock draft without seeing Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman being the Vikings' pick.
Vikings’ Jonathan Greenard mess could flip entire NFL Draft strategy
Pretty much since the start of the 2026 offseason, there's been chatter and buzz about the Minnesota Vikings trading Jonathan Greenard. That rumor picked up speed just ahead of free agency, when it was revealed that Greenard and his camp were seeking a pay raise. It was also reported that the Vikings were unable or unwilling to meet those demands and that the team was instead looking to trade him.
The Vikings' 3 biggest needs for the 2026 NFL season after free agency
The Minnesota Vikings weren't overly active in free agency, but despite a limited budget, they were able to address some needs on their team. They brought back veterans like Aaron Jones and Eric Wilson, filling needs at linebacker and running back. The Vikings got the swing tackle they needed in Ryan Van Demark and got some help for the secondary in James Pierre. They were also able to bolster their quarterback room with the additions of Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz.
5 Vikings who must step up before things spiral in the 2026 season
The Minnesota Vikings, overall, have had a pretty quiet free agency this offseason. Things have picked up in recent days with the signings of Kyler Murray, Johnny Hekker, Ryan Van Demark, and Carson Wentz, but the Vikings still haven't filled many of the holes on the depth chart that they had when the legal tampering period opened. Minnesota simply doesn't have enough cap space to address those needs and will have to find other ways to improve its roster.
What we learned about the Vikings' front office through the first week of free agency
NFL Free Agency 2026 kicked off last week, and teams across the NFL were going buck-wild throwing money at players to improve their rosters. It was uncertain how active the Vikings' front office would be in this frenzy. They were able to restructure and cut enough contracts to have some money to spend, but with a new regime in charge, it was unclear how aggressive the team would be or what type of players they would target.
Kyler Murray or Geno Smith as Vikings' next quarterback... Why not both?
The legal tampering period and NFL Free Agency are about to kick off, and who will be the Minnesota Vikings' next quarterback has been one of the biggest topics leading up to it. Rumors have been rampant about who the Vikings might target to replace or compete with J.J. McCarthy for the job. Names like Kirk Cousins, Derek Carr, and Anthony Richardson have been floated out there. Now, with just a matter of hours from the start of free agency, Kyler Murray has emerged as the frontrunner for the job.
3 former Vikings who could return and change Minnesota's offseason
Nik Edlund 2026 NFL free agency kicks off next week for the Minnesota Vikings and the rest of the league with the legal tampering period beginning on Monday, and it's one of the most exciting times of the NFL calendar year. Teams will be bidding against each other to improve the perceived weak spots on their rosters with players who they believe can fix those holes.
3 former Vikings who could return and change Minnesota’s offseason
2026 NFL free agency kicks off next week for the Minnesota Vikings and the rest of the league with the legal tampering period beginning on Monday, and it's one of the most exciting times of the NFL calendar year. Teams will be bidding against each other to improve the perceived weak spots on their rosters with players who they believe can fix those holes.
3 prospects raising red flags for Vikings after 2026 Scouting Combine
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is over for the Minnesota Vikings and the 31 other teams around the league. 319 prospects were invited, and many of those either performed up to expectations or exceeded them. There are plenty of lists and videos on the winners from each day and how those players helped their draft stock. Unfortunately, there's also the flip side of that. Some prospects do not hit the metrics that many scouts, teams, and analysts believe they will.
Three prospects moving up the Vikings draft board after the 2026 NFL Combine
Another stop on the way to the 2026 NFL Draft is in the rearview mirror as the Scouting Combine wrapped up over the weekend. 319 prospective NFL players went through medical testing, interviewed with teams, and took part in on-field drills in not much more than their underpants. Some players perform better in this environment than others, and the media is quick to label risers and fallers as soon as each day wraps up.
Vikings could double down on defense in dramatic fashion this offseason
In a recent article by The Athletic's Alec Lewis, he answers questions sent in by readers. One of those questions asks about the largest realistic free-agent contract the Minnesota Vikings could afford this offseason and what position that may be used for. Lewis answers by stating that if the Vikings don't go big on a quarterback signing, they could put that money into another position. The position he mentions is defensive tackle.
ESPN’s J.J. McCarthy suggestion feels wildly premature
ESPN's Aaron Schatz recently listed one player from every NFL team that needs a change of scenery. For the Minnesota Vikings, he unsurprisingly chose quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Schatz explained why he believes McCarthy would be better off playing elsewhere for the rest of his NFL career. "A fresh start for McCarthy with a different organization might be the best thing for his career.
ESPN’s J.J. McCarthy suggestion feels wildly premature
With selection day for the NCAA men's hockey tournament about a month away, it's time to look at the contenders for the field of 16, from teams on …
Tyreek Hill joining Vikings may not be the fairytale fans expect
The Miami Dolphins recently released superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill, making him a free agent. It's a common reaction among Minnesota Vikings fans to consider signing any big-name player who becomes available after they are released. Sometimes it makes sense, and sometimes it doesn't, but Hill's release is definitely worth speculating about. What makes the Hill situation unique is that in the past, he's expressed his desire to play for the Vikings.
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell lands on Fox Sports Hot Seat Rankings
Fox Sports recently released its rankings of the top 10 coaches who are already on the hot seat for 2026. A lot of obvious names were on that list, including Aaron Glenn of the Jets, Zac Taylor of the Bengals, and Nick Sirianni of the Eagles. The list also included some surprising names, such as Brian Schottenheimer of the Cowboys, Matt LaFleur of the Packers, and the Colts' Shane Steichen. Coming in at number seven was Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell.
What the Vikings should steal from the Seahawks to unlock a title run
The Seattle Seahawks are NFL Champions after a dominating win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 60 this past Sunday. While they are off enjoying the victory and the champagne showers, other teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, should and will analyze this squad and try to figure out and copy the aspects of their team that got them to this level. NFL teams love to try to mimic what Super Bowl winners do, in hopes that they can have the same fortune.
Vikings fans missed this telling detail in Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s exit
The Minnesota Vikings fired their general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, last week and, in nearly the same breath, announced that Rob Brzezinski would be running the front office. In the press release that announced the change, there was a telling statement from the Wilfs. The statement was a powerful one that both aired Adofo-Mensah's shortcomings, as well as showing how the future of this front office will work regarding upcoming personnel decisions.
Why the Vikings’ sudden firing of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah wasn’t sudden at all
The Minnesota Vikings sent a ripple through the NFL last Friday when they fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. The fact that he was let go wasn't the biggest shock; it was the timing of the move. Adofo-Mensah had already spent time this offseason scouting draft prospects at this year's East-West Shrine Bowl, and he was down in Mobile, Alabama, last week interviewing and scouting players at the Senior Bowl.
Why the Vikings’ sudden firing of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah wasn’t sudden at all
Over the past week, we have ranked the best prospects and farm systems in baseball ahead of the 2026 MLB season. Now we're going to have some fun …
Vikings’ most dangerous offseason weakness isn’t what fans expect
The Minnesota Vikings have some pretty big holes on their roster to fill this offseason. They have to find a quarterback who can push J.J. McCarthy for his starting job and then be able to win them games when he eventually gets hurt. They will likely be looking for a new center, assuming that Ryan Kelly is released. On defense, they have to shore up their secondary by getting another starting-caliber safety and perhaps up to three quality cornerbacks.
Two Shrine Bowl players quietly checked every box for the Vikings
The annual East-West Shrine Bowl wrapped up earlier this month after multiple practices and a game in front of scouts representing the Minnesota Vikings and every other team in the NFL. The East-West Shrine Bowl is typically made up of second-tier NFL Draft prospects, with the top guys hearing their names called sometime on the draft's second night.
Brian Flores just gave the Vikings a massive edge for the 2026 season
After a couple of weeks of speculation and virtual and in-person visits, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores was unable to land a head coaching job. The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers were the two franchises that interviewed Flores for their head coach openings, but they both went in other directions. While that may have been bad news for Flores, it's great news for the Vikings.
Vikings' depth chart has one glaring hole that could doom 2026
The Minnesota Vikings are approaching a pivotal offseason. They are coming off a five-game winning streak that closed out the 2025 season, and want to ride that momentum into next year. In order to do that and make a strong push to the playoffs, the team has to fill some holes on both sides of the ball. On offense, the Vikings have to find a competent backup quarterback and one who can push J.J. McCarthy to be the starter.
Vikings' biggest surprise in 2025 was a comeback no one predicted
For the Minnesota Vikings, the 2025 season was a failure. The team did not make the playoffs, and while finishing on a high note was a positive, they had the potential to make a deep playoff run. Overall, it was a disappointing year for the Vikings, but even in a lost season, there can be plenty of positive surprises. Will Reichard's consistency, Jalen Redmond's continued ascension, and Jalen Nailor's grabbing hold of the No. 3 WR job were all feel-good stories that took fans by surprise.
Vikings' biggest disappointment of 2025 could haunt them for years
Without a doubt, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy was the team's biggest disappointment of the 2025 season. Expectations and excitement were through the roof as he was returning to the Vikings after missing his entire rookie season with an injury. Minnesota head coach Kevin O'Connell deemed him the franchise quarterback at the same time he announced that he'd miss his rookie year.
Ex-NFL head coach might be Vikings’ insurance if Brian Flores leaves
Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores has been a hot commodity in the NFL this offseason. Flores has already received head-coaching interest from multiple teams and has even interviewed with the Washington Commanders about their defensive coordinator opening. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has expressed his desire and confidence in keeping Flores in Minnesota.
4 Vikings coaches Minnesota can’t afford to keep another day
The Minnesota Vikings are fresh off a 9-8 season. It may have ended with a high note and a five-game winning streak, but there’s a reason why the Vikings lost eight games. Minnesota had stretches of very bad football, and at one point in 2025, it wasn’t an overstatement to say the team was among the worst in the entire league. Several factors contributed to that slump, including injuries, poor effort from the players, and ineffective coaching.
4 Vikings coaches Minnesota can’t afford to keep another day
Vikings cap crunch could force a move no one wants to see After last offseason's spending spree, the Minnesota Vikings will naturally be less active this offseason. But, as they also sit just more than $46 …
Three Vikings who locked up a roster spot in the first preseason game
The Minnesota Vikings won their first preseason game in five years by squeaking out a 24-23 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Plenty of players stood out in this game. The two first-round picks shone especially bright, as JJ McCarthy threw for nearly 200 yards and a couple of scores and Dallas Turner was as advertised with a sack and a tackle for a loss.
5 Minnesota Vikings who are having a quiet training camp
Minnesota Vikings Training Camp 2024 is beginning to wind down. We've heard of the players who are balling out with prime examples being JJ McCarthy, Jalen Nailor, Theo Jackson, and of course Justin Jefferson. It's exciting to hear about these players who are thriving and showing out every single practice, but there's also a plethora of players who have had quiet camps. Having a quiet camp isn't always a bad thing.
3 former Vikings running backs the team could re-sign for the 2024 season
A strange thing happened with the Minnesota Vikings running back room this past week. Reports were running rampant that the team planned to sign Cam Akers pending a physical. ESPN even went as far as showing him on the team's depth chart. So it was a bit of a shock when it was recently announced that he had signed with the Houston Texans.
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