What changes might be coming for the Vikings? Pete Bercich offers analysis
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The Minnesota Vikings are in offseason mode after a 27-9 loss to the L.A. Rams in the NFC Wild Card Playoffs.
All things considered, the Vikings exceeded expectations in 2024 with 14 wins, despite an early exit from the playoffs for the second time in three seasons. Now, there are decisions to be made before the league year starts in March. Sunday night on FOX 9 Sports Now, Jim Rich and Pete Bercich of the Vikings Radio Network broke down some of those decisions.
Will Sam Darnold be back?
What we know: Sam Darnold signed a one-year deal with the Vikings, worth $10 million. He set career-highs with 4,319 passing yards and 35 touchdowns. He also crumbled in the two biggest games of the season. The Vikings can place the franchise tag on him and either bring him back or trade him, let him walk in free agency or sign him to a new contract.
What we don’t know: If J.J. McCarthy is ready to be the starting quarterback in 2025 after missing his rookie season due to knee surgery. If he is, he’ll get the keys to the offense.
What happens in the secondary?
What we know: Harrison Smith could retire. Cam Bynum, Shaq Griffin and Byron Murphy Jr. are all free agents. Assuming Smith is done, it’s in the Vikings’ best interest to bring the others back.
What we don’t know: What those contracts look like. Bynum has become one of the better safeties in NFL, and Murphy had a career-high six interceptions this season.
Will Brian Flores be back?
Why it matters: Brian Flores had interviews for head coaching jobs with the Chicago Bears, New York Jets and Jacksonville Jaguars. The Bears hired Ben Johnson, and it doesn’t appear Flores is getting in-person interviews with the Jets or Jaguars.
The Vikings led the NFL with 24 interceptions and were top-five with 49 sacks. So will Flores return? If he doesn’t get an in-person interview with another team, yes. His ongoing lawsuit with the NFL might have something to do with that.
What about Kevin O’Connell, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah?
What we know: Kevin O’Connell and Kwesi Adofo-Mensah are under contract with the Vikings through the 2025 season. O’Connell is 34-19 in three seasons, but 0-2 in the playoffs. Adofo-Mensah has made big additions in free agency, but has had some issues in the NFL Draft.
What we don’t know: If the Vikings’ ownership group will sign them both to extensions before the 2025 season. They would be foolish to let O’Connell walk. Adofo-Mensah also deserves an extension for roster moves outside of the draft.
The Vikings are now preparing for the NFL Draft process, which includes senior showcases and the NFL Combine.