4 massive unknowns heading into the Vikings 2023 offseason
By Dean Jones
What unknown quantities surround the Minnesota Vikings ahead of another important offseason in 2023?
Achieving 13 wins was a considerable achievement in Kevin O’Connell’s first season as head coach. The Minnesota Vikings rode their luck along the way, which was eventually exposed during their torrid wildcard playoff loss at home to the New York Giants.
This was largely anticipated by many considering how the Vikings performed overall. While the offense once again thrived, Minnesota’s defense was woeful at best and big changes are needed to retain command of the NFC North in 2023.
It’s another important offseason, the second of O’Connell’s reign. And make no mistake, the Vikings could look far different by the time OTAs begin later this spring.
Without further ado, here are four unknown quantities ahead of Minnesota’s 2023 offseason.
Unknown No. 1
How good are Cine and Booth Jr.?
There was a great sense of anticipation when the Vikings secured Lewis Cine and Andrew Booth Jr. from the 2022 NFL Draft. Both defensive backs were dominant figures at the college level, but their first year in Minnesota was littered with injury concerns that made their respective contributions minimal.
This puts the Vikings in something of a predicament. Do they reinforce the backend substantially or bank on Cine and Booth staying healthy and showing their true potential?
In truth, it could be a little bit of both.