SPORTZONE27

The Minnesota Vikings enjoyed a strong 2024 regular season, securing a playoff berth before being eliminated by the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card Round. Heading into the new season, they aim to build on that success and make a deeper postseason push with J.J. McCarthy now leading the offense. However, there are still key areas that need to be addressed. Here are three potential trade targets the Vikings should pursue to strengthen their championship aspirations.

One significant move Minnesota made was acquiring Jordan Mason from the San Francisco 49ers, forming a dynamic backfield duo alongside Aaron Jones. They also bolstered their defensive front by signing Jonathan Allen to a two-year contract, further enhancing their interior defense. On top of that, they brought in another strong presence on the defensive line by signing Javon Hargrave, also from the 49ers.

Despite these additions, the roster still has some vulnerabilities that could become major issues—especially if injuries arise. Specifically, the Vikings should look to upgrade at backup quarterback, cornerback, and along the interior of the offensive line to solidify their chances at a deep playoff run.

Daniel Jones

With Sam Darnold agreeing to a three-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks, the Vikings lost their starting quarterback from 2024. While Darnold wasn’t expected to start in 2025, his departure leaves Sam Howell as the primary backup. Howell has starting experience, but the Vikings may want a more reliable veteran presence in case McCarthy gets hurt.

Daniel Jones, currently on a one-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts as a backup, could be a viable target—especially if the Colts’ season begins to unravel. Should that happen, Indianapolis might look to give Jones playing time or trade him. For Minnesota, acquiring someone like Jones would provide much-needed insurance behind McCarthy.

Jones was released by the New York Giants after starting just 10 games, in which he threw for 2,070 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions, finishing with a 79.4 passer rating—the lowest among the league’s starting quarterbacks.

While the Vikings are fully invested in McCarthy—and rightfully so—having a dependable backup is critical. A quarterback injury can derail a season, and Minnesota should prepare for that possibility.

Jalen Ramsey

According to Team Rankings, Minnesota ranked 29th in the NFL in defensive passing touchdowns allowed per game. While some may attribute this to the Vikings often playing with a lead, they still finished 14th in total passing touchdowns surrendered. Although their Wild Card Round performance against the Rams wasn’t a complete collapse, the pass defense still gave up two passing scores.

Many expect the Los Angeles Rams to pursue a trade for Jalen Ramsey, but the Minnesota Vikings could also benefit from adding the veteran corner. The Vikings currently lack a true shutdown cornerback and instead rely on a rotational group to cover opposing receivers. This weakness was exposed at various points during the 2024 season, especially in games against standout receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Puka Nacua, and DJ Moore.

Ramsey appeared in all 17 games for the Miami Dolphins last season, registering 60 total tackles (39 solo), along with one sack, two interceptions, and 11 pass breakups. Though these numbers aren’t his career best, he remains a reliable shutdown presence and would be a valuable asset during a playoff push.

Minnesota likely wouldn’t have to give up much in a trade—possibly just a mid-round draft pick—to land Ramsey. His arrival would greatly strengthen the Vikings’ secondary and create problems for division rivals like the Lions, Bears, and Packers in the passing game.

Cesar Ruiz

Minnesota’s offensive line issues were glaring in a lopsided loss to the Rams. While some of the blame falls on quarterback Sam Darnold for holding the ball too long, the offensive line had its share of problems. Center Garrett Bradbury, in particular, struggled at times, and the Vikings could use an upgrade at center or guard to improve both pass protection and run blocking.

The New Orleans Saints signed Cesar Ruiz to a long-term contract before the 2023 season. However, now that New Orleans appears to be entering a rebuild, they may be willing to part ways with Ruiz to shed salary and get younger on the roster.

Ruiz played in 13 games last season, missing four due to a knee injury. When healthy, he was outstanding in pass protection, allowing only one sack over 813 offensive snaps.

While the Vikings’ pass protection was generally solid throughout the season, their offensive line faltered in key playoff moments. Adding a dependable interior lineman like Ruiz could help stabilize the line and improve their chances of making a deeper postseason run.