The Minnesota Vikings are on a mission to craft a powerhouse roster for the 2025 NFL season, and the buzz around their potential is starting to heat up. With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon and offseason moves in full swing, there’s plenty of excitement in the air. While these early assessments can’t guarantee a Lombardi Trophy, getting recognition for having a solid roster is always a thrill, especially when it comes from a respected national source.
In a recent piece by Sports Illustrated, analysts Gilberto Manzano and Matt Verderame shone a light on the NFL’s top teams at various position groups in the midst of free agency. Vikings fans have reason to cheer as their linebacking corps earned some well-deserved accolades.
Minnesota made headlines by revamping its linebacking unit in what feels like a single offseason masterstroke. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah masterminded the acquisitions of Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel, anchoring them on the edges, while Blake Cashman takes charge at the core of the defense.
For those keeping track, it’s no surprise that a 3-4 defensive scheme is hailed as ideal for linebackers. It expertly integrates both middle linebackers and primary edge rushers. The Vikings’ strategic maneuvering last season in securing Greenard, Van Ginkel, and Cashman has already proven fruitful and is set to keep paying off through 2025.
Interestingly, the article skips over Ivan Pace Jr., a standout who made waves as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He has since carved out a starting position, clocking in at 28 games and counting, and looks to pair up with Cashman again for the upcoming season.
Depth is a cornerstone of Minnesota’s linebacker strength. The offseason signing of Eric Wilson offers seasoned backup support, while 2024 first-rounder Dallas Turner is a tantalizing prospect with the makings of a future impact player on the edge.
Under the aggressive direction of defensive coordinator Brian Flores, the Vikings’ defense has the potential to soar in 2025. Fortifying the trenches is expected to liberate the linebackers, boosting their performance and productivity.
As we look ahead, if Sports Illustrated’s endorsement holds any weight, Vikings fans should be in for an exhilarating season watching their linebackers take center stage.
