X-Factors for the Vikings in the 2024-25 Season
For the Minnesota Vikings to be successful in the upcoming NFL season they will need to rely on not only their known stars like Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson, but also some key players that will need to make an impact on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. An X-Factor is a noteworthy special talent or quality. I believe that there are four players on this Minnesota team whose on-field performances will be crucial for the success of this season. Two on offense, and two on defense. Let’s dive into each of these players and why they are so vital to the performance of this team.
On the offensive side of the ball last season, the Vikings were stellar when everyone was healthy. Aside from the running game that is, they ranked 29th in the league in total rush yards and tied for last in total rushing touchdowns. To attempt to fix this glaring issue, the Vikings brought in former rival, and veteran running back Aaron Jones. Jones will be a key factor in Minnesota’s success for a multitude of reasons. First off, Jones could unlock a completely new dimension for the Vikings’ offense with his ability on the ground. If the Vikes could develop even a slightly above-average run game, they could be one of the most prolific offenses in the league. Aside from his rushing ability, Aaron Jones also adds to Minnesota’s already-loaded passing game. Jones has the fourth-most receiving touchdowns and eighth-most receiving yards among running backs since entering the league in 2017. Lastly, Jones brings a level of leadership to the Vikings locker room. With the departure of Kirk Cousins in the offseason, Kevin O’Connell will need veteran leadership to replace what he lost in Cousins.
The second X-Factor for the Vikings on offense will be second-year wide receiver Jordan Addison. Coming off of a double-digit touchdown campaign in his rookie season, Addison will look to make a jump in his sophomore year. His development as a route runner and catcher of the football will be crucial in the offensive success of the team. If Addison can become more of a threat to opposing defenses, a lot of pressure off of the shoulders of Sam Darnold as well as take attention away from Justin Jefferson.
As far as the defensive side of the ball goes, I have identified a very experienced veteran as well as a rookie who could take Brian Flores’ unit to the next level. The Vikings made a late offseason signing on August 18th, agreeing to a deal with former Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore. The secondary has been a glaring weak spot for the Vikings the last few seasons. Bringing in a player with as much talent, experience, and leadership as Gilmore, will certainly have an impact on the younger corners in the locker room. The Brian Flores and Stephon Gilmore reunion could be very special for Minnesota. The second key difference maker for this year’s defense will be their rookie first-round pick, Dallas Turner. The Vikes need a replacement for what they lost in Danielle Hunter this offseason. Hunter had been a consistent force as a pass rusher during his eight seasons in Minnesota. The hope is that Dallas Turner will develop and eventually have a similar impact in both the pass rush and run defense. If Turner can develop throughout the season, he may very well end up being the steal of the 2024 NFL Draft.
