Between now and the end of August, TGS will offer up a quick snapshot of every NFL team heading into the 2015 regular season. Today, the Minnesota Vikings.
2014 in a nutshell: They shockingly lose Adrian Peterson to an off-the-field controversy in September but still improve their win total from five to seven thanks to a solid rookie season from quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
Why 2015 could be different: Bridgewater should be even better in Year 2 after posting the second-highest qualified passer rating in football during the final five weeks of 2014. Plus, Peterson’s back, they’ve added Mike Wallace and the young defense should be even better.
Major additions: Wallace and rookie cornerback Trae Waynes.
Major losses: Veteran receiver Greg Jennings.
Breakout watch: Bridgewater, of course. But also keep an eye on young, highly-touted defenders Sharrif Floyd, Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks, Waynes and Xavier Rhodes.
Position to watch: Pro Football Focus graded the offensive line last in football in terms of pass-blocking efficiency in 2014. They absolutely need 2012 No. 4 overall pick Matt Kalil to improve at left tackle, while they’ll likely be relying on two new starting guards in Brandon Fusco and rookie fourth-round pick T.J. Clemmings.
Prediction: This team is simply better than the Lions and with some luck could even compete with the Packers for the NFC North crown. At the very least, they should be a wild-card team with 10 wins.
