5 players the Vikings could realistically trade for prior to the deadline

The NFL trade deadline is often a bit underwhelming, but the Minnesota Vikings should be open to bucking that trend this season.

Heading into the bye week, the Minnesota Vikings sit at 5-1 and have a pretty favorable schedule to finish their season. The NFC looks to be a bit down this season, which gives the Vikings every reason to be aggressive in chasing a deep playoff run.

Regardless of what the record says, the Vikings have to get better in all phases of the game. The offense has had far too many empty possessions while the defense has been susceptible to big plays and long drives. If Minnesota wants to win in the playoffs, the roster is going to need some major work.

The trade deadline is approaching shortly after the bye week. Some NFL trades have already taken place this season, most recently Robbie Anderson was sent from Carolina to Arizona. If the Vikings want to get aggressive, will they have options to improve the roster via trade?

With Carolina heading toward a heavy rebuild, they could be on the verge of a major roster overhaul. However, the Vikings are not going to have the ammunition to go land Brian Burns, DJ Moore, or any other potential targets from Carolina.

Instead, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah should keep his sights set on some non-contending teams that are struggling to start the season. From promising young playmakers to unproven players that need a fresh start, here are the most realistic trade candidates for the Vikings this season.