With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the Vikings are looking to make some noise. On the offensive line, Donovan Jackson’s torn meniscus has created a hole, but Joe Huber showed he can hold his own against the Saints. Still, Minnesota might want to bring in a bench player to back up Huber, Blake Brandel, or Will Fries. A bigger move could be swapping out a starter for someone like Quinton Nelson from the Colts, though that’s a stretch. Other names in play include Tyler Steen from the Eagles or Ben Bredeson from the Buccaneers.
The defense is already crushing it, but that doesn’t mean they can’t add depth. Rookies Caleb Banks and Domonique Orange have had moments, but they’re not quite ready for prime time. Jalen Redmond and Levi Drake Rodriguez have been pleasant surprises, but keeping that level of performance up might be tough. Adding a versatile defensive tackle like Zach Sieler from the Dolphins or Daron Payne from the Commanders could give the team more options without breaking the bank.
Safety is the trickiest spot. Brian Flores’ scheme is complex, and it takes time to get it right. Theo Jackson, Josh Metellus, and Harrison Smith have solid depth, with undrafted rookie Jacob Thomas proving reliable. But if a player like Antoine Winfield Jr. or Budda Baker pops up, it could be worth the gamble. The Vikings might also look for a contingency plan for Smith, someone who can blitz and read the field well.
