Minnesota Vikings at Crossroads: 3 Intriguing Options at No. 24 in the 2025 NFL Draft
The Minnesota Vikings, led by head coach Kevin O’Connell, face a critical decision at the 24th pick of the 2025 NFL Draft. After a promising regular season that saw them positioned as a potential Super Bowl contender, their journey came to an abrupt halt in the Wild Card round with a devastating loss to the Los Angeles Rams, highlighted by a record-tying nine sacks allowed. Now, the focus shifts to addressing key roster deficiencies.
Here are three potential first-round targets who could bolster the Vikings’ chances of making a deeper postseason run next season.
1. Tyler Booker, Offensive Guard, Alabama
Fixing the offensive line is a top priority. Quarterback Sam Darnold was sacked more than twice in 14 games this season, with the Rams’ defensive line exposing the Vikings’ vulnerabilities in the playoff loss.
Enter Tyler Booker, a 6’5″, 352-pound powerhouse from Alabama. Booker has a reputation as one of the most consistent pass protectors in this draft class. His combination of heavy hands and explosive footwork on pull blocks allows him to dominate defenders and open up running lanes.
CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards already projects Booker as a perfect fit for the Vikings at No. 24. Coming from a program renowned for producing NFL-ready talent, Booker could provide an immediate upgrade and solidify Minnesota’s interior offensive line.
2. Kaleb Johnson, Running Back, Iowa
If the Vikings opt to address their ground game, Kaleb Johnson is a name to watch. While fans may dream of Ashton Jeanty, the Boise State standout and Heisman runner-up, he’s unlikely to fall this far in the draft.
Johnson, however, brings his own dynamic skill set to the table. At 6’0″, 220 pounds, Johnson combines size, strength, and agility. His elite cutting ability and knack for evading defenders make him a natural fit for Minnesota’s zone-running scheme.
With Aaron Jones turning 30 and nearing the twilight of his career, Johnson could step in as the Vikings’ running back of the future. His physicality and vision would inject new life into a rushing attack that struggled to find consistency.
3. Benjamin Morrison, Cornerback, Notre Dame
Cornerback is another pressing need for the Vikings, especially with Shaquill Griffin and Stephon Gilmore aging and top corner Byron Murphy set to hit free agency.
Benjamin Morrison, a standout from Notre Dame, offers an intriguing solution. Standing 6’4″, Morrison is a long, physical defender who excels in man coverage. His ability to neutralize top receivers would be invaluable in a division featuring stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Keenan Allen, D.J. Moore, and Christian Watson.
With a strong showing against elite competition, including Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith in the national championship, Morrison has solidified himself as one of the best cornerback prospects in this class. Landing him at No. 24 could give the Vikings a cornerstone for their secondary for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s shoring up the offensive line, finding a future star at running back, or bolstering the secondary, the Vikings have critical decisions to make in this draft. Kevin O’Connell and Kwesi Adofo-Mensah must weigh their options carefully to ensure Minnesota remains competitive in the NFC North and beyond.
Stay tuned, as the 2025 NFL Draft promises to shape the Vikings’ trajectory for seasons to come.
