Was Pro Football Focus kind to the Vikings?
While the Vikings' 2025 season fell short of expectations, plenty of players shone, even in a down year. Pro Football Focus put together their top 101 player list for 2025, and the Vikings were represented.
At number 93 was former Viking and current Super Bowl champion Sam Darnold, which is interesting, with Justin Jefferson making the list at number 92.
"Although Jefferson finished with the fewest receiving yards of his career in 2025, that was largely not his fault. Jefferson’s 80.5 PFF overall grade ranked 16th among wide receivers this season. However, his 87.8 PFF receiving grade against zone coverage ranked sixth."
The list will continue to unveil itself in the coming days, with the first edition ending at number 81 with San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy.
What other Vikings could be candidates for the rest of the list?
Cornerback Isaiah Rodgers was outstanding in 2025 and finished with a defensive grade of 73.8. That grade was good enough for 12th amongst all cornerbacks. Rodgers had two return touchdowns, but the more remarkable number is the zero penalties on the season. His coverage grade of 74.1 is 13th amongst all cornerbacks.
Linebacker Eric Wilson was a pleasant surprise as a pass rusher. On only 180 pass-rushing snaps, Wilson generated 37 pressures and finished with six sacks, four QB hits, 27 hurries, and a pass rush grade of 70.2 (12th in the NFL).
Tackle Brian O'Neill showed up in 2025 and finished with an 81.6 offensive grade, 84.5 run blocking grade, and a 76.4 pass blocking grade. O'Neill allowed just two sacks on 446 pass blocking snaps and one QB hit.
Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr was solid in 2025 and played well when asked to man the slot. Murphy Jr ranks seventh in the NFL with coverage snaps per reception at 9.9. On 159 pass coverage snaps in the slot, the cornerback allowed 16 receptions on 26 targets and 175 yards.
Second-year defensive lineman Jalen Redmond was excellent against the run. On 417 run defense snaps, Redmond ranks 11th with a run defense grade of 72.7. With 37 tackles, 11 assists, a forced fumble, and 30 defensive stops (7th in the NFL), Redmond flashed his potential with his arrow still pointing up.
Which Vikings players do you think should make the list? How many players are on the verge of breaking out and making next year's top 101 list?