Minnesota Vikings’ Search for Strengthening Their Roster: Key Draft Targets for 2025

The Minnesota Vikings entered the 2024 NFL season with Super Bowl aspirations, showing off a powerful offensive unit and an impressive defensive lineup. However, their postseason dreams were shattered after a crushing first-round exit, and the devastating loss to the Los Angeles Rams, where they allowed a franchise-record nine sacks, left fans and analysts alike wondering what went wrong. As a result, Minnesota is now facing the critical task of evaluating their draft picks for 2025, especially the 24th overall selection, to bolster the areas most in need of improvement.

Addressing the Offensive Line: Tyler Booker, Offensive Guard, Alabama

There’s no question that the Vikings need to make offensive line improvements, particularly following the struggles their quarterbacks endured under pressure this season. The Vikings allowed an alarming number of sacks, and with quarterback Kirk Cousins, still at the helm, they can’t afford to see him go down too often.

One of the most promising offensive line prospects in this year’s draft is Tyler Booker from Alabama. At 6-foot-5 and weighing in at a solid 352 pounds, Booker is a mauler in the trenches with the agility to excel in both pass protection and run blocking. His ability to neutralize rushers at the point of attack with his heavy hands and his powerful burst on pulling blocks makes him one of the most consistent and reliable blockers in this draft class.

Booker’s experience in Alabama’s NFL-caliber program prepares him well for immediate contributions at the professional level. His solid footwork and strength have already earned him a projected landing spot at 24th overall, which makes him a logical choice for the Vikings as they look to fix their line woes.

Shoring Up the Running Back Position: Kaleb Johnson, Running Back, Iowa

While the Vikings have a star in running back Dalvin Cook, age is starting to creep in, and Minnesota will soon need a long-term replacement. With Cook turning 30 soon, the team should start thinking ahead, and that future could involve Kaleb Johnson, the Iowa running back with an intriguing combination of size, power, and speed.

At 6 feet tall and 220 pounds, Johnson is a force to be reckoned with. His ability to break tackles and his cutting ability in the open field make him a dangerous runner. Johnson would bring a versatile skill set to the Vikings’ offense and would provide a reliable backup option behind Cook, eventually transitioning into the starting role in the near future.

Given his consistent production and tough running style, Johnson could be the future of Minnesota’s backfield and a key piece for the next era of Vikings football.

Strengthening the Secondary: Benjamin Morrison, Cornerback, Notre Dame

With a defensive backfield that has shown promise but also weaknesses, the Vikings’ need for a reliable cornerback to pair with current talents becomes clear. The departure of veteran cornerbacks like Shaquill Griffin and Stephon Gilmore looms large, and the Vikings can’t afford to leave their secondary vulnerable in the competitive NFC North.

Benjamin Morrison from Notre Dame stands out as one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6-foot-4, Morrison brings impressive size and athleticism to the table, making him an ideal match against bigger, more physical receivers in the NFC. He’s a standout in man coverage and has the skills to shut down top-tier receivers, something that will be crucial with the likes of Amon-Ra St. Brown, Keenan Allen, and Christian Watson all vying for opportunities in the division.

Morrison’s ability to lock down top receivers and add strength to the Vikings’ secondary could make him an ideal pick for Minnesota at No. 24. His potential to compete against big playmakers in the NFC North, and perhaps even limit the impact of Ohio State’s star receiver, Jeremiah Smith, on big stages, is exactly what the Vikings need moving forward.

Conclusion: A Promising Draft for the Vikings’ Future

With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the Minnesota Vikings are at a critical juncture in their quest to improve their roster. With pick No. 24, they have the chance to address key areas of need, including the offensive line, running back, and secondary. Whether they choose to shore up their pass protection with Tyler Booker, invest in their backfield with Kaleb Johnson, or strengthen their secondary with Benjamin Morrison, the Vikings are in a prime position to make a difference with this pick.

The 2024 season may have ended earlier than Minnesota hoped, but the 2025 draft presents them with the opportunity to build for a stronger future. With smart, strategic selections, the Vikings could very well position themselves as Super Bowl contenders once again.