Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings struggled to a 6 win season in 2006. In his first year coaching the club, Brad Childress just didn't get the type of commitment from his players that he had hoped. In a bad division, the Vikings finished 3rd, only ahead of the Detroit Lions. Last seasons' big free agent acquisition, Chester Taylor, stayed healthy for most of the season, and finished 5th in the NFC in rushing, with 1,216 yards and 6 touchdowns. Brad Johnson didn't fare as well, as he threw more interceptions (15) than touchdowns (9). That might have something to do with him being let go this off-season, but you never can tell. The wide receiver position remained a problem for the Vikes in '06. In fact, ever since Moss went to the Raiders, the Vikings haven't known who to throw to. Troy Williamson was supposed to morph into a super talent, as he was selected 7th overall in 2005, but dropped passes continue to haunt the young speedster, and right now, newly signed Bobby Wade looks like an upgrade at the position. Scary. Currently, 2nd year signal caller, Tarvaris Jackson, looks like the man in Minnesota, though the Vikings seem skeptical to let Jackson decide their fate in 2007. However, I really like the kid, and although he didn't look fantastic statistically in his first few starts, I actually thought his poise was solid during his first couple starts.

Recent Records:

2004: 8-8 2005: 9-7 2006: 6-10

Off-Season Plans:

After their worst season in some time, the Vikings looked to switch things up in free agency. The Vikings cut Brad Johnson, Fred Smoot, and Jermaine Wiggins, while bringing in Bobby Wade, Visanthe Shiancoe, and linebacker Vinny Ciurciu. The trade of players who didn't care to do anything the team wanted for 3 guys that are ready to sacrifice whatever it takes seems like a good move for the Vikes, however, I would have to say the Vikings overpaid for both Shiancoe and Wade. The draft should add talent to a struggling offense, and maybe even add some late round talent on defense. However, defensively, the Vikings are very good, especially when you consider the relative ineffectiveness of their offense throughout last season. Wide receivers are strong and deep this year, as the Vikings could improve their receiving corps greatly in either of the first two rounds. However, unless the Vikings trade down into the latter half of Round 1, I don't see them selecting a receiver with their first pick, there's just no value there. A player like LaRon Landry, Leon Hall, or Reggie Nelson would greatly upgrade their secondary, while adding any of the top defensive lineman would improve depth at a position in which you can never have enough talent. Look for the Vikes to trade down, or wait for their receiving upgrade in Round 2.

See the VIKINGS draft situation at Lucky's Mock Draft!