How the Vikings Can Be a Super Bowl Contender in 2026
The article outlines a potential path for the Minnesota Vikings to become Super Bowl contenders in 2026 despite current skepticism from oddsmakers. Key factors include improved offensive line health and sustained defensive performance under coordinator Brian Flores. The success of new quarterback Kyler Murray will also play a crucial role in the team's outlook.
- ▪The Vikings' offensive line missed over 25% of games last season due to injuries, which could improve in 2026.
- ▪Kyler Murray, the Vikings' new quarterback, has missed about 25% of his career starts due to injury.
- ▪Under Brian Flores, the Vikings have fielded the NFL's second-best defense overall from 2023 to 2025 based on EPA/Play.
- ▪The Vikings' defense ranked 1st in 2024 and 3rd in 2025 in EPA/Play, showing sustained elite performance.
- ▪Oddsmakers do not currently view the Vikings as top-tier Super Bowl contenders for 2026.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Yahoo Sports.