3 biggest Vikings MVPs heading into the team's 2024 bye week

After an incredible 5-0 start to the season, the Minnesota Vikings are looking like a problem in the NFC North.

Their hot start has been spearheaded by strong performances in all three phases of the game: offense, defense, and special teams.

After five games, it is clear which players have been the most important pieces for the Vikings. These three players are the MVPs of the best team in the National Football League thus far.

Minnesota Vikings MVPs heading into the team's 2024 bye week

Offensive MVP

Sam Darnold - QB

The expectations were pretty low for Sam Darnold when his deal was announced. Minnesota then added J.J. McCarthy in the draft and he showed signs of being the franchise quarterback in training camp and his preseason debut. Once he went down for the season with the injury, Darnold had to step up as the undisputed starting quarterback.

Through five starts with his new team, Darnold is tied for second in the NFL in passing touchdowns with 11 and has looked really impressive navigating the pocket to extend plays. While he ranks just 13th in yards, the Vikings have not had to throw the ball a ton in the second half this season.

While there is a case to be made for Aaron Jones and Justin Jefferson, Darnold has been the highest above expectations and has been a leader for this team. For the rest of this season, this is Darnold's team and he has earned that without any doubts.

Defensive MVP

Andrew Van Ginkel - OLB

Another offseason acquisition to be a star for the Vikings is Andrew Van Ginkel. He was signed as part of a complete overhaul of the pass rush and has completely revolutionized Minnesota's defense. In five games, Van Ginkel already has two interceptions returned for touchdowns and three sacks.

He has been a playmaker for Brian Flores and has given the Vikings life in the early stages of two games already this season. His pick-six against the New York Jets in Week 5 was the difference, as the Vikings struggled offensively and won by six points.

Flores has maximized his defense, and several veterans have played incredible football this year. Harrison Smith, Cam Bynum, Harrison Phillips, and Stephon Gilmore have all been fantastic, but Van Ginkel is the MVP at this point. If he continues to play at his current level, the Vikings are going to be a serious threat in the NFC.

Special Teams MVP

Will Reichard - K

To cap off the run of first-year Vikings, rookie kicker Will Reichard has been sensational. The Alabama product is perfect on field goals and extra points through five games, including three kicks of 50-plus yards and a long of 58. Reichard has been automatic as a professional and has made it look easy.

It is early, and kickers can go through some rough stretches, but the early tests have come back wonderfully for Reichard. He has earned his every nickname that has been given to him, whether it be Will the Thrill, Drill Reichard, or Will Striker. The Vikings seem to have found their guy in the kicking game and that is a breath of fresh air.

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