What are Minnesota Vikings' biggest needs in the 2025 NFL Draft?

Last Modified Apr 25, 2025 12:19 GMT
Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota Vikings. Source: Getty Images

The Minnesota Vikings spent a hefty 300 million-plus dollars during the free agency for the 2025 season. Hence, their four picks at the 2025 NFL Draft will potentially be used to smooth the remaining edges of the side. The Draft begins for the Vikings with the No. 24 selection in round 1, followed by a round 3 (No. 97) compensatory pick, as per Minnesota Vikings' official website. The league-low resources of four picks reflect less flexibility for the team and demand accuracy from GM, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

Minnesota Vikings' biggest needs in the 2025 NFL Draft

The countdown for the 2025 NFL Draft has begun. After their 14-3 season, the Minnesota Vikings will target improvements to their safety, cornerback, and offensive line.

Offensive Line (Guard)

According to Minnesota Vikings' official website, the 2025 NFL Draft is for "impact over need." Hence, strengthening the offensive line will upgrade their protection unit, which gave up nine sacks to the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round for a loss. Grey Zabel from North Dakota State is a potential player who can aid Ryan Kelly and Will Fries in the unit (via Minnesota Star Tribune). Donovan Jackson from Ohio State University can reportedly help with this offensive line upgrade that Minnesota might be looking for. His movement and acceleration make him a good fit for the Vikings.

Safety

South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori and Georgia safety Malaki Starks are the most mocked players for the Minnesota Vikings. (via Minnesota Vikings' official website) CBS Sports highlights that purple and gold need more athleticism on the back end of their defense, especially with Cam Bynum's exit and Harrison Smith nearing the end of his career. Hence, the young Emmanwori will be an electric addition to the team. Meanwhile, FOX Sports projects Malaki Starks to toughen the team's secondary.

Cornerback

Kwesi-led Vikings can use a corner with size on the outside, as per NFL's official website. The potential candidate for the position is Florida State Cornerback, Azareye'h Thomas. The 6' 1" tall CB will potentially lock larger targets. CBS Sports has projected the Vikings to go for Maxwell Hairston from the University of Kentucky because of his speed and mannerism on the field. Meanwhile, the NFL projects Jahdae Barron at No. 24 for the Vikings, who might prove to be a versatile and athletic weapon for the Brian Flores-led defense.

Other NFL Team Needs in 2025 Draft -

FAQs on Minnesota Vikings Team Needs

A. The owner of the Minnesota Vikings is Zygi Wilf. 

A. The Minnesota Vikings have never won a Super Bowl.

A. The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings is Kevin O'Connell, as of April 2025. 

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