When asked about Vikings expectations last week, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah compared the team’s current trend to a popular table game in Las Vegas.
“It’s a collection of players at different points in their career,” he informed me. “You’re trying to hit that magical craps roll where a lot of things happen together at once.”
Essentially, the Vikings are sitting at a craps table with proven commodities, such as top receiver Justin Jefferson, who provide a baseline of competitiveness, and unknown commodities, such as seasoned, relatively untested quarterback Sam Darnold, who might make or break the next few months.
The Vikings are relying on the expected rise of a few players. That will ultimately determine whether they go on a heater or crap out.
Here are five guys (listed in order of significance) who must step up for the Vikings this season.
1) Sam Darnold
Nobody will have a greater impact on the Vikings’ season than Darnold as he tries to restore his career. Throughout training camp at the TCO Performance Center, the arm talent was on full display. It’s easy to see why he was the third pick in the 2018 draft. His proclivity for turnovers has always been an issue. Head coach Kevin O’Connell will strive to correct the situation while relying on Darnold in the meantime. If Darnold can play consistently, the Vikings could be on the verge of making the playoffs.
2) Stephon Gilmore
Veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore’s inclusion on this list is nearly entirely due to his advanced age. He turns 34 this month, and while the depth chart appears to be much stronger on paper with Gilmore as the top cornerback, it remains to be seen how productive he will be with the Vikings. The good news is that Gilmore has not indicated that a drop-off is imminent. Though he is no longer the Defensive Player of the Year, he was effective as a starter for the Dallas Cowboys past season. That’s just what the Vikings need this season.
3) Aaron Jones
It’s no secret that the Vikings have struggled to run the ball recently. They haven’t received consistent production from the backfield since former star running back Dalvin Cook was at his peak. That may change with the signing of veteran Aaron Jones. He shone down the stretch for Green Bay last season, demonstrating that he still has something left in the tank. He will turn 30 this season, thus the possibility of a deterioration is factored in. Nonetheless, the Vikings expect Jones to be a key component of their offense.
4. Dallas Turner.
Dallas Turner, a rookie edge rusher, exudes talent. He has a remarkable combination of speed and quickness for his stature, allowing him to consistently win while pressing the passer. The only question is whether Turner will be able to hold his own in the trenches. He has to build some strength so he doesn’t be overwhelmed in close quarters. Turner’s opportunity to play situationally alongside fellow edge rushers Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel could be beneficial. That three might be a threat to rival teams.
5. Jalen Nailor.
There is no doubt that Jefferson and fellow receiver Jordan Addison will be the driving force behind the passing offense. Especially with standout tight end T.J. Hockenson out for the first month. The ascension of quick receiver Jalen Nailor might add another dimension to the offense, propelling it to new heights. His emergence was a tale throughout the summer, and it has the potential to draw even more attention if he can maintain it in the fall. The challenge for Nailor will be to stay healthy. He has grappled with this in the past.
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