NFL Analyst Believes Minnesota Vikings' Defense 'Could Be Exposed' in 2026

Minnesota Vikings’ 2026 outlook includes confidence on defense but growing concern about durability and depth. After winning 14 games in 2024, the Vikings faced quarterback uncertainty, and they now hope Kyler Murray’s arrival energizes the offense. Defensively, they ranked third in yards allowed and seventh in points allowed last year, with coordinator Brian Flores returning for a fourth season. Still, changes could affect continuity: Minnesota parted ways with defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, replacing them with lower-cost rookies. The Vikings also traded edge rusher Jonathan Greenard, and Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport warns that the secondary could be “exposed” due to limited depth if injuries hit. Internally, the secondary is led by former Pro Bowler Byron Murphy, Isaiah Rodgers, and free agent signee James Pierre, with fifth-round rookie Charles Demmings and undrafted Dwight McGlothern. Davenport highlights the absence of a veteran like Harrison Smith to coach up the unit on the field.