Despite a 14-3 regular-season record, their season ended abruptly with losses of 31-9 to the Detroit Lions in Week 18 and a 27-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round. Sam Darnold melted down after throwing 35 touchdowns over the Vikings’ first 16 games, throwing zero against the Lions and Rams.
The Vikings’ defense improved in 2024, but most of their secondary is set to test free agency. Their lack of an interior pass rush forced Brian Flores to get creative and blitz often, although this left holes in the passing game that the best offensive minds and quarterbacks took advantage of.
There are also questions regarding the coaching staff. Teams are requesting interviews with several members of the Vikings’ coaching staff, leading to potential philosophical changes in 2025.
However, the Vikings will enter free agency with the sixth-most cap space. They had a fantastic offseason in 2024 by adding several free agents who played significant roles in the 14-3 season. If the Vikings can replicate any of that success, they could set themselves up for further success in 2025.