Did you enjoy the Minnesota Vikings ' relatively quiet free agency period over the last three weeks? It won't happen again next year at this time.
Minnesota could face major roster churn when the 2027 offseason arrives.
The 2027 docket of free agency is already shaping up to be fast and furious, with many players' contracts up for review. This examination peeks at the lay of the land one year ahead.
Minnesota might even have an official general manager by then.
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) shares a postgame moment with Minnesota Vikings linebacker Blake Cashman (51), exchanging words and respect after a competitive matchup on Sep. 22, 2024, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as both players reflect on the outcome and intensity of the contest. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.
The Starters Slated to Test Free Agency
This year's free agency didn't have ginormous starting names scheduled to leave, but that's not the case in 2027. Minnesota will probably fire up an extension, two,, or three from the following group, but these players are slated to test the open market next March:
Blake Cashman (ILB)
T.J. Hockenson (TE)
Jordan Mason (RB)
Kyler Murray (QB)
Brian O'Neill (RT)
Jalen Redmond (DT)
Isaiah Rodgers (CB)
Andrew Van Ginkel (OLB)
So, yes — if Minnesota's front office, in theory, finagled no extensions in the next 11-12 months, the Vikings would need new starters at inside linebacker, tight end, running back, quarterback, right tackle, defensive tackle, cornerback, and outside linebacker .
Translation? A new team.
Our Janik Eckardt wrote about Redmond earlier this month, "Redmond was a key piece in the middle of Brian Flores' defensive line as a true disruptor in his second season with the Vikings. Initially coming into the league as an undrafted rookie with the Carolina Panthers in 2023, he failed to qualify for their 53-man roster and took the long road over the UFL."
"That's where the Vikings spotted his talent and brought him in for their training camp in 2024. The 26-year-old will be a building block going forward on a defense that could undergo some changes this offseason."
All in all, Redmond was a Top 3 Vikings player in 2025, believe it or not.
Ecakardt added, "Hargrave and Greenard have surfaced in trade chatter, while Harrison Smith could retire after his long career. Linebacker Eric Wilson is an unrestricted free agent."
"Redmond was disruptive in both areas, against the run and the pass. The exclusive-rights tender was the most straightforward move Minnesota could make this offseason. Now the focus shifts to the players around him."
The Meaningful Role Players
Thought we were done? Not so fast. Men from the next group will see notable playing time in 2026, and by season's end, some could even start. Nevertheless, on top of the starters, there are more players who will turn heads on the free-agent block :
Brandel and Ward may even start for the 2026 Vikings, depending on the outcome of the draft in 3.5 weeks. If you're keeping track at home, this is 14 free agents before hitting the special teams and depth guys — or about 64% of the starting lineup(s).
PurplePTSD 's Steve Hoikkala noted recently on Brandel as an option at center for the Vikings in 2026, "He struggled at times at guard and was demoted to a rotational backup. The way the Vikings now see Brandel after his 2025 season has steadily grown his stock thanks to his rare versatility."
"Brandel has already proven he can play tackle and guard in the NFL. This season, he added another wrinkle by playing center for the first time in his professional career (as he told Vikings Territory he could do back in 2024). What stands out to me is not just that Brandel survived at center, but that he looked comfortable."
Brandel improved weekly at center while filling in for Ryan Kelly in 2025.
Minnesota Vikings guard Blake Brandel (64) anchors the interior offensive line, battling at the point of attack during playoff action against the Los Angeles Rams on Jan. 13, 2025, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, as protection and run blocking become critical in the high-stakes NFC wild card matchup. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.
Hoikkala continued, "With limited preparation time, Brandel showed he doesn't have too many issues snapping the ball. Even though he is big for a center, Brandel has enough athleticism to get to the second level."
"He showed he can make offensive line calls and adjustments that typically take considerable time to learn and master. Being so experienced helps. So, too, does it help to have a strong understanding of the Kevin O'Connell scheme."
Depth Pieces + Special Teams
Even the "other" free agents pack a bit of a punch:
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Bo Richter (98) positions himself defensively, reading the play and preparing to engage during postseason action against the Los Angeles Rams on Jan. 13, 2025, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, as the defense looks to contain the offense in the NFC wild card showdown. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.
Long snappers aren't the most important thing in the world, but DePaola is a Pro Bowler. Right now, Richter is the OLB4, and Wentz started five games for the 2025 Vikings.
Everywhere you look, eyebrow-raising players on the Vikings' roster are scheduled to test free agency next offseason.
