6 biggest Vikings needs after the first wave of free agency in 2024

Vikings need No. 3

Kicker

Until recently, the Minnesota Vikings did not have a kicker on their roster. The team remedied that problem by signing John Parker Romo to a one-year deal, making him the only kicker on the team's depth chart at the moment and putting the special teams unit in a compromising situation unless some changes are made to one of the most overlooked and underappreciated positions in the league.

It is a little surprising that Greg Joseph wasn't signed back to Minnesota. Last season, he didn't miss a single one of his kicks from inside 40 yards, proving that he can consistently make routine field goals on a regular basis.

Perhaps the Vikings are looking for a kicker that and convert longer kicks more regularly. Joseph made seven of his 13 field goal attempts from 40 yards or longer with his longest make coming from 54 yards out.

The problem with the current situation is that John Parker Romo has yet to attempt a single regular season field goal attempt in the NFL despite the young kicker having stints with the New Orleans Saints, Detroit Lions, and Chicago Bears.

One huge positive about Romo is that he was named to the All-XFL team for his efforts last season with the San Antonio Brahmas. Whether or not he can translate his XFL success into success at the NFL level has yet to be seen.

The Minnesota Vikings can't be comfortable enough with Romo as their kicker to not bring in competition for him during training camp and the preseason. Although the 24-year-old kicker deserves an opportunity to win the job, putting him up against an established veteran kicker or an undrafted free agent with a strong leg would be smart to ensure the team has a quality kicker for the 2024 NFL season.