Minnesota ranked inside the top 10 in ESPN’s recent power rankings, but there is still an NFC North team ahead of it.
The Vikings come in at nine, behind the Packers, which ranked sixth. Minnesota has actually moved down a spot since ESPN’s post-free-agency power rankings.
Here’s what the outlet said about Minnesota’s spot on the list:
“The Vikings drafted Stefon Diggs’ heir apparent when they took Justin Jefferson No. 22 overall, and the LSU star immediately fills the No. 2 receiver opening. Jefferson had 100 receptions out of the slot last year and is primed to catch a lot of passes from Kirk Cousins in 2020, but it’s the attention he’ll draw from defenses that could help Thielen see less bracket man coverage. The Vikings also added K.J. Osborn and Quartney Davis in the draft. Minnesota might have defined roles for their top four receivers for the first time in years.”
If Jefferson can replace the production Diggs left behind, that bodes well for the offense. However, I think it might take more than just him. Other rookies besides him, reserves and possibly free agency signing Tajae Sharpe will have to go about making sure the offense doesn’t take a step back.