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Vikings Ranked 24th: Murray vs. McCarthy Battle Heats Up
6 May
Summary
- ESPN ranks Vikings at 24th, citing quarterback improvement.
- Kyler Murray acquired for $1.3 million, will compete for QB1.
- SI.com ranks Vikings higher at 19th, acknowledging past wins.

National media outlets have positioned the Minnesota Vikings unfavorably in their post-2026 NFL Draft power rankings. ESPN placed the team at No. 24, citing quarterback improvements as the most significant roster development.
The Vikings acquired Kyler Murray for $1.3 million, with the Cardinals covering the rest of his substantial salary. Murray is expected to compete for the starting quarterback job against J.J. McCarthy, with Carson Wentz also returning to provide depth.
However, not all rankings are so low, with SI.com placing Minnesota at No. 19. This ranking acknowledges the team's nine-win performance last season despite inconsistent quarterback play.
CBS Sports also ranked the Vikings at No. 24, emphasizing the urgency to build a roster around an aggressive defense and receiver Justin Jefferson.
Sportsbooks predict a season record around 8-9 or 9-8, with the upcoming schedule release expected soon. The Vikings will host nine games and face a challenging NFC North division.