The Minnesota Vikings fan base might be dealing with the headache that is figuring out who the starting quarterback will be, but no matter what, the supporting cast should be just fine for them.
In fact, ESPN's Bill Barnwell thinks very highly of the Vikings' running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends as a group, ranking them eighth among NFL units. One big reason for that: Justin Jefferson and the Vikings' wide receivers.
"There's a tier break between the top eight teams and everyone else on this list.
Even coming off his worst season as a pro, Justin Jefferson still has a deserved reputation as one of the most feared receivers in the game. He also has been healthy for five of his first six seasons in the league, which makes it easier to project a full season.
And adding Jauan Jennings gave coach Kevin O'Connell an overqualified No. 3 to play behind Jefferson and Jordan Addison."
Top-tier Minnesota Vikings offensive playmaker group carried by Justin Jefferson and WRs
It's hard to argue that the Vikings' wide receivers are the main reason their skill-player group is in the top 10. Jefferson alone is more than enough reason, as he's a top-five NFL receiver despite having a career-low 1,048 yards last season.
The addition of Jennings gives Minnesota a true third-down receiver they can turn to, taking pressure off of Jefferson and Addison. Even with Addison, who in his own right is a top-10 WR2 in the NFL, this wide receiver room is just loaded with talent all around.
Barnwell was not as complimentary to the tight ends and running backs on the Vikings, though. He called tight end T.J. Hockenson a "make-or-break season" for him, while simply saying that Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones are not enough to make anyone excited about the backfield.
"The names on the Vikings' roster at running back and tight end might be more prominent than their actual expected level of play in 2026."
Hockenson had a down season, averaging just 8.6 yards per reception, a career low for him. If he can't step up in 2026, he will most likely look for a new home in free agency.
As for Mason and Jones, the Vikings' offense ranked 23rd in rushing yards, averaging 108.3 yards per game. The duo has the potential to be good, and the offensive line's durability played a key role in the running game struggling, but the two could find themselves on the chopping block if they don't play better.
There's a lot of talent on the offense with more players needing to prove themselves in 2026, but if it all falls into place, it won't matter if Kyler Murray or J.J. McCarthy are starting at quarterback, as the skill guys can carry this offense to new heights.
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