The Minnesota Vikings are hoping to get back to contender status in 2026, and while the team’s new additions will play a big role in that pursuit, the development of some younger players will also be a major factor.
With Minnesota’s roster undergoing a typical offseason reshuffle, there are a few young contributors who will be asked to step into bigger roles next season.
One of those players is edge defender Dallas Turner. The 2024 first-round pick has shown consistent growth during his time in the league, but one analyst is banking on him to make a significant leap in 2026. Bradley Locker, in a recent PFF piece, put together a 2026 NFL All-Breakout Team.
The objective was simple: predict the next great player at every position who will make their leap to superstardom in 2026.
Turner was one of the edge defenders listed to this All-Breakout Team.
Minnesota Vikings edge rusher Dallas Turner predicted to make the leap to superstardom in 2026
Locker explained that while Turner has been productive, he hasn’t emerged as a star yet after two seasons. With veteran edge defender Jonathan Greenard no longer with the team, Locker says, “Turner has a clear runway to both meaningful playing time and improved production for Minnesota.
As a rookie in 2024, Turner didn’t start any games, but he did appear in 16. Playing just 28 percent of the team’s defensive snaps, he recorded three sacks, 20 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and one interception.
In 2025, he stepped into a bigger role, playing in all 17 games and starting 10. In those 17 games, Turner played 66 percent of Minnesota’s defensive snaps and posted a team-high eight sacks, 66 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, and four forced fumbles.
That was a significant jump in production from year one to year two, and now the hope and expectation is that he has a similar leap in impact as he goes into year three.
Turner is now expected to be the full-time starter, and with two years of experience under his belt, he has what it takes to emerge as one of the best defenders in the NFL.
The 2026 season will certainly be a great year to do it. Not only will Minnesota need his contributions, but Turner will be eligible for an extension after the season. This is the perfect time for him to send a message to the Vikings and the rest of the NFL.
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