Insider Kevin Seifert reveals how the Vikings quietly secured Kyler Murray and addressed key needs amid cap constraints and major departures.
The Minnesota Vikings have had what some would term a quiet offseason. And while it has addressed a massive need with little to no cap hit in the signing of star quarterback Kyler Murray, not everyone is satisified.
One Vikings insider is discussing the team's perceived understated offseason through the first couple of weeks. ESPN's Kevin Seifert described what the team has done to this point.
"During the first week of free agency, when almost all of the costly contracts are signed, the Vikings committed the NFL's third-lowest amount of cash, according to Over the Cap. Their biggest deal was to retain linebacker Eric Wilson, who will be paid a total of $8.25 million in 2026; three of their other five transactions were for special teams players.
They've parted ways with four starters, although they have not given up hope that safety Harrison Smith will return to play for another season, and convinced another two -- running back Aaron Jones Sr. and tight end T.J. Hockenson -- to take pay cuts. They have also entertained the idea of trading linebacker Jonathan Greenard rather than give him a raise.
Even with Murray's arrival, and his presumptive elevation over 2025 starter J.J. McCarthy, it has been the Vikings' least active spring in recent memory. The last time they signed only one new starter during the opening round of free agency was 2020 (defensive tackle Michael Pierce)."
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) celebrates with wide receiver Greg Dortch (4) after defeating the San Francisco 49ers at State Farm Stadium. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesBut how quiet has the offseason really been?
The team locked in deals to bring in not only a franchise quarterback in Murray, but a defensive star in returning linebacker Eric Wilson. Add in that the team did not deal big names like Jonathan Greenard, who many would like to add via trade. Still, some are unhappy with the inaction and might even prefer to see a great player like Greenard move to make more deals.
The Vikings, however, have been tasked with the difficult job of focusing on the 2026 season while also factoring the future, which could include a $40-plus million deal for their new starting quarterback should he succeed. Add in that the franchise started the offseason over $40 million above the salary cap before restructures and roster cuts.
Were they given the option financially, the Vikings probably bring back Javon Hargrave for the 2026 season. That said, the team's cap situation dictated that they downsize the roster and let great players leave.
So, why has the offseason been quiet? The Vikings are doing what they can within the cap to field the best team possible. So far, they have. Now, the pressure is on a strong 2026 draft after several poor selections in recent years. Should they fix their draft woes this April, look for the team to compete for the NFC North title this season.