Standout moves:
The big question for Minnesota is the quarterback position. The answer could still be 2024 No. 10 overall pick J.J. McCarthy, but the Vikings picked up a potentially excellent alternative by signing Murray on a veteran-minimum deal. If Kevin O’Connell turns back the clock for the two-time Pro Bowler, that move alone would earn the team a stronger grade if I were to revisit this exercise at a later date.
However, the rest of the offseason has been largely unimpressive, with the lowest free-agency spending in the league, per Over the Cap. The Vikes parted with a defensive stalwart in OLB Jonathan Greenard (trade), and safety Harrison Smith remains unsigned as of this writing. DTs Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released after ineffective one-year stints. The Vikings had a less-than-stellar draft, highlighted by what I viewed as a reach on Banks at No. 18 overall. Snagging Jennings on a cheap deal in May was a plus, but unfortunately, nowhere near enough to elevate an otherwise-lackluster spring.