5 biggest Vikings needs after the first wave of free agency in 2023
By Nik Edlund
Need No. 5
Edge
Even before free agency started, Za’Darius Smith said his goodbyes to Vikings fans on social media. This created a frenzy of speculation that he’d be traded.
After the team signed Marcus Davenport, it appeared a trade of Smith would soon follow. It’s been nearly a week since the Davenport signing was announced, and Smith remains on the team whether he likes it or not.
Assuming Smith is moved, and with Davenport being signed to just a one-year deal, the Vikings could look to add an edge later in free agency or in the draft.
They do have some solid young players in D.J. Wonnum and Patrick Jones on the roster, but like Davenport, Wonnum is only here for one more season.
The draft this year is loaded with edge rushers. The Vikings could actually find some pretty tantalizing options on the board at pick No. 23, but it’s more likely an area they would look to upgrade sometime in the later rounds.
Edge remaining a need hinges on Smith’s future with the team. If he somehow sticks around, this need diminishes. If he’s let go, then it’s likely a draft pick will be used to bolster the depth.