Vikings fall to No. 24 in ESPN post-NFL draft power rankings

The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in the bottom third of the league following the 2026 NFL Draft, landing at No. 24 in ESPN's latest post-draft power rankings.

Way-too-early ranking: 23

Most improved position: Quarterback

The Vikings did some good work at defensive tackle in the draft, but they had long ago accomplished the most important task of the offseason by building a more competitive QB room. Kyler Murray was the best quarterback available this offseason, and he will cost the Vikings only $1.3 million while the Cardinals pay the remainder of his $37.6 million salary.

Instead of simply hoping J.J. McCarthy will take the necessary steps forward, the Vikings have a proven veteran with arguably higher upside in Murray. And if it doesn't work out, the Vikings brought back Carson Wentz to ensure the position will have a higher floor than it did last season. -- Kevin Seifert

The ranking underscores a franchise still navigating a transition, particularly at quarterback, where long-term stability remains uncertain despite having three top-12 picks at the position. While the Vikings added talent in the draft, the overall roster outlook suggests a team still building rather than contending in the immediate future. Minnesota's draft class brought in several intriguing pieces, particularly on defense with first-round pick Caleb Banks and third-round pick Domonique Orange, and along the offensive line with third-round pick Caleb Tiernan, but the lack of a clear franchise quarterback continues to shape the team’s ceiling. Until that position is solidified, the Vikings are likely to hover in the middle to lower tiers of the league rankings.