Minnesota Vikings Hit Top 10 In ESPN Future Power Rankings

Unlike regular power rankings which try to evaluate where each team stands at the present moment, ESPN’s future power rankings attempt to determine which teams are looking the best not just now but for the next several years.

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According to ESPN’s panel, the Minnesota Vikings are well-positioned to not only compete in 2015 but be a factor through the 2017 season, landing at #7 in their future power rankings (Insider only).

Here’s what ESPN’s panel had to say in making their case for the Vikes as one of the NFL’s top teams for the next three seasons:

"The Vikings climbed 19 spots in the overall rankings as voters’ initial optimism for coach Mike Zimmer firmed up following a successful initial season. That included a league-best, 14-spot climb to 15th in quarterback outlook thanks to Teddy Bridgewater’s strong rookie campaign. Recent first-round picks Anthony Barr and Xavier Rhodes also look like good fits. The organization appears squared away in key spots with a defensive-minded head coach, a strong offensive coordinator who is unlikely to bolt for another job (Norv Turner), a workhorse running back and a young quarterback. These developments reflect well on general manager Rick Spielman, which is why Minnesota jumped from 23rd to 11th among front offices."

And if you like your info in graph form:

credit: ESPN

This ranking is just the latest example in a trend of national media folks jumping on the Vikings bandwagon. After several years wandering lost through the wilderness, it’s nice to the see the Vikes once again getting some respect from outlets like ESPN.

Here’s the full top-ten if you happen to be curious. Yeah, THAT team is number 1. Bring it on.

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