The Vikings' Aggressive Free Agency Moves

In a bold seven-day span, the Minnesota Vikings emerged as the NFL's biggest spenders in free agency, committing over $300 million to retain, trade for, or sign 14 players. This spending spree, which included nearly $160 million in full guarantees, has set the stage for a transformative 2025 season.

Revitalizing the Running Game

A significant portion of the Vikings' budget was allocated to bolstering their running game. The additions of center Ryan Kelly, guard Will Fries, starting tailback Aaron Jones, and backup running back Jordan Mason accounted for nearly half of their total expenditures. These moves aim to address a long-standing weakness in the Vikings' offense. Over the past three seasons, the Vikings ranked 28th in designed runs (35.3%) and 27th in rushing yards per game (99.4).

Jordan Mason, in particular, is expected to make a substantial impact. Since entering the league in 2022, Mason has averaged 2.49 yards per rush after contact, the best mark among players with at least 150 attempts. With Kelly and Fries providing better blocking, the Vikings hope to improve their goal-to-go rushing offense, which has been one of the league's worst.

Securing the Secondary

Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. was another key focus for the Vikings. Despite being the NFL's most targeted defender last season, Murphy made his first Pro Bowl after intercepting six passes. The Vikings re-signed him to a three-year, $54 million deal, ensuring stability in their secondary. This move was crucial given the departure of several cornerbacks and the tragic loss of Khyree Jackson.

Strengthening the Defensive Line

The Vikings also invested in veteran defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. Both players bring a wealth of experience and a history of disrupting offenses, despite recent injuries. Allen missed nine games in 2024 due to a torn pectoral muscle, while Hargrave missed 14 games with a torn triceps. However, the Vikings are optimistic that these veterans can still contribute significantly, especially in pass-rush situations.

Planning for the Future

Safety Theo Jackson's three-year, $9 million extension reflects the Vikings' long-term planning. Jackson, who has shown promise in training camps, is expected to start in 2025. This move ensures the Vikings have a reliable starter at a reasonable cost, avoiding the potential for a more expensive contract if Jackson had tested free agency.

Conclusion

The Minnesota Vikings' aggressive approach in free agency underscores their commitment to building a competitive team for the 2025 season. By addressing key weaknesses and securing valuable players, the Vikings are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the NFL.