The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in the bottom third of the league following the 2026 NFL Draft, landing at No. 24 in ESPN’s latest post-draft power rankings.
Way-too-early ranking: 23
Most improved position: Quarterback
The Vikings did some good work at defensive tackle in the draft, but they had long ago accomplished the most important task of the offseason by building a more competitive QB room. Kyler Murray was the best quarterback available this offseason, and he will cost the Vikings only $1.3 million while the Cardinals pay the remainder of his $37.6 million salary.
Instead of simply hoping J.J. McCarthy will take the necessary steps forward, the Vikings have a proven veteran with arguably higher upside in Murray. And if it doesn’t work out, the Vikings brought back Carson Wentz to ensure the position will have a higher floor than it did last season. — Kevin Seifert
The ranking underscores a franchise still navigating a transition, particularly at quarterback, where long-term stability remains uncertain despite having three top-12 picks at the position. While the Vikings added talent in the draft, the overall roster outlook suggests a team still building rather than contending in the immediate future. Minnesota’s draft class brought in several intriguing pieces, particularly on defense with first-round pick Caleb Banks and third-round pick Domonique Orange, and along the offensive line with third-round pick Caleb Tiernan, but the lack of a clear franchise quarterback continues to shape the team’s ceiling. Until that position is solidified, the Vikings are likely to hover in the middle to lower tiers of the league rankings.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell will be tasked with maximizing a roster that still features high-end talent at the skill positions, but the team has been plagued by inconsistency in recent seasons. If the Vikings can find stability under center and get immediate contributions from their rookie class, they could outperform expectations.
For now, ESPN’s No. 24 ranking reflects a team with potential, but one that still has significant questions to answer before climbing back into playoff contention.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings land at No. 24 in ESPN’s post-draft rankings