The Minnesota Vikings need reinforcements on the defensive line.
Three of their top four defensive tackles—Jonathan Bullard, Jerry Tillery, and Jihad Ward—are set to hit free agency this offseason. While they played a key role in helping Minnesota allow the second-fewest rushing yards in the NFL last season, the Vikings need more from their interior pass rush.
Philadelphia Eagles standout Milton Williams was initially seen as an ideal free-agent target, but his dominant Super Bowl performance against the Kansas City Chiefs likely drove up his price. Williams recorded two sacks on Patrick Mahomes in the Eagles’ 40-22 victory, showcasing how a dominant defensive front can be the key to disrupting elite quarterbacks.
Sports Illustrated’s Will Ragatz predicted that Williams’ value has soared after the Super Bowl, making him a costly option. Spotrac initially projected a three-year, $36 million deal for him, but Ragatz believes he could command around $20 million per year—a price that may still be worth it for the Vikings given his rare athleticism and game-changing ability at just 26 years old.
Vikings Have Long Pursued an Elite Defensive Tackle
Minnesota has been searching for a high-impact defensive tackle for some time. Last offseason, they prioritized signing Christian Wilkins but were outbid by the Las Vegas Raiders, who gave him a four-year, $110 million contract. Instead, the Vikings used their cap space to sign edge rushers Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel—both of whom made the Pro Bowl under Brian Flores.
With their edge rush secured and top prospect Dallas Turner developing, the Vikings should again prioritize adding a disruptive presence on the interior defensive line this offseason.
Vikings May Target a Defensive Tackle in the Draft
Considering the high price of top-tier defensive tackles, Minnesota could look to the draft to address the position while allocating cap space elsewhere.
According to A to Z Sports’ Tyler Forness, defensive tackle is the second-most frequently mocked position for the Vikings in this year’s draft. Prospects such as Ole Miss’ Walter Nolen, Michigan’s Kenneth Gant, and Oregon’s Derrick Harmon have all been linked to Minnesota in mock drafts.
As the offseason unfolds, the Vikings must decide whether to spend big in free agency or invest in a young, high-upside defensive tackle in the draft to bolster their defensive line.