The Vikings have some work to do to get under the salary cap in 2026
As it stands right now, the Vikings would be over the projected 2026 salary cap by 58.1 million. Unfortunately, that is the cost of doing business for going all-in with a cost-controlled young quarterback and loading up with win-now, expensive veterans. There is no doubt that it will take some tough decisions to get the team under the cap before the season begins. Holding the number 18 pick in the draft should help bring cheap, impact talent in right away.
ESPN released an article with predictions in free agency for a select few NFL teams. Multiple contributors gave their thoughts on each question and prediction.
The Vikings top offseason priority is figuring out what to do with J.J. McCarthy.
"Figure out the J.J. McCarthy conundrum. He had a mostly brutal first season as the Vikings' starter and the team must decide whether to give him another season, acquire a replacement or pair him with a veteran backup who could take over if he fails to make progress."
The secondary priority is what to do if Brian Flores departs this offseason, according to Kevin Seifert.
"Settle the Brian Flores situation. He has been one of the NFL's best defensive coordinators during his three seasons in Minnesota, but his contract is expiring and he'll have the opportunity to consider options elsewhere even if he doesn't get a head coaching job. It'll be a challenge to replace him with an equal performer."
Jeremy Fowler wonders if Harrison Smith is truly done as a Viking, even with the farewell given in the season finale.
"Smith got the last-game treatment in Week 18, subbing out in the final minutes for a home-crowd ovation and hugs from teammates. That signals a looming retirement. But if he plays a 15th season, the chances of a return to Minnesota would be high. He produced at age 36 with 54 tackles, two interceptions, 10 pass deflections and one sack."
Caleb Downs of Ohio State is the ideal draft selection for Minnesota, although it is hard to imagine him hanging around until number 18. Matt Miller explains his fit.
"If Flores isn't hired away as a head coach, he'll want to bolster the secondary. Ohio State's Caleb Downs is unlikely to last until the late teens, but he would be an ideal pick in a Minkah Fitzpatrick-type role. Either Brandon Cisse (South Carolina) or Colton Hood (Tennessee) might be more likely options to fill a need at cornerback."
And your surprise cut for the Vikings? Tight End T.J. Hockenson. Aaron Schatz details his salary cap savings.
"With little cap space, the Vikings will say goodbye to tight end T.J. Hockenson, who has had injury issues and is coming off two straight years with fewer than 500 receiving yards. He was tied for 33rd among tight ends in ESPN's receiver scores through Week 17. Cutting Hockenson would save the Vikings nearly $9 million in cap space before June 1 and $16 million if designated after June 1.