We have arrived. The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for what promises to be a fascinating season for the franchise, and there is an enormous amount at stake.
Much of the offseason talk has centered on the quarterback battle. Kyler Murray is the guy, but the hard work is just getting started. The Vikings need their new signal-caller to be firing on all cylinders from the outset, because this is a team built to win right now.
If the Vikings had a competent quarterback last season, they would have been a playoff team. Hopefully, they have one now, which raises confidence that head coach Kevin O'Connell can go one better if they get off to a fast start.
On this topic, we predicted the first five games of Minnesota's 2026 season, and there is a lot to like about the team's outlook.
Predicting the Minnesota Vikings' first five games of a crucial 2026 campaign
Vikings vs. Packers - Week 1
An old rivalry returns to kick off the 2026 campaign. And make no mistake; this is a chance for the Vikings to lay down an early marker.
The Green Bay Packers have talent, but they won't have prolific edge rusher Micah Parsons. It's hard to see where else they can generate significant pressure from, especially if Minnesota's offensive line improves. With home-field advantage working in their favor, they should fancy their chances.
Prediction: Win (1-0)
All eyes will be on Murray. If the mobile dual-threat is serviceable, the Vikings can come away with a morale-boosting triumph.
Vikings at Bears - Week 2
Things don't get any easier for the Vikings in Week 2. Another bitter NFC North clash awaits when they travel to the Chicago Bears, who are finally on the up after securing a postseason berth in 2025.
Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson seem to have a blossoming relationship. The Bears have some outstanding playmakers on offense, but their defense may be vulnerable. The Vikings can exploit that, making this a fine-margin game that could legitimately go either way.
Prediction: Loss (1-1)
Games like this come down to a few plays here and there. But despite a valiant effort, the Vikings narrowly fall short.
Vikings at Buccaneers - Week 3
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers won't have Baker Mayfield's contract status hanging over the franchise after the quarterback got a new deal worth around $55 million per season. That's a big vote of confidence, but the signal-caller could be in for a long afternoon against the Vikings.
Brian Flores' aggressive pressure schemes will give Tampa Bay's protection untold problems. Aside from left tackle Tristan Wirfs, there isn't a real standout. And though the likes of Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka can make plays, Mayfield lost his safety valve when wide receiver Mike Evans left for the San Francisco 49ers.
Prediction: Win (2-1)
If the Vikings can contain running back Bucky Irving, they stand a good chance of securing success at Raymond James Stadium.
Vikings vs. Dolphins - Week 4
The Vikings have another winnable game in Week 4 against the Miami Dolphins. They are expected to struggle this season after a massive offseason overhaul. While they won't throw in the towel completely, the moves suggest this new regime is already focused on the future.
De'Von Achane is a threat that must be counteracted in the backfield, and Malik Willis can make highlight throws if given enough time to go through his progressions. But at least on paper, the Vikings are far superior.
Prediction: Win (3-1)
This should be a comfortable afternoon at the office for Minnesota. Anything less would be unacceptable.
Vikings at Saints - Week 5
The Vikings and New Orleans Saints have shared some memorable moments over the years. From the Minneapolis Miracle to Bountygate and Kirk Cousins' overtime playoff touchdown to tight end Kyle Rudolph, there is a lot of history between the two clubs. That also means a lot of personal pride is on the line.
New Orleans has struggled in recent years, but signs emerged late last season that things might be clicking. Tyler Shough has promise at quarterback, and Chris Olave is an explosive wide receiver who can make things happen. Couple this with the running back tandem of Travis Etienne Jr. and Alvin Kamara, and the Saints might be a tougher out in 2026.
Prediction: Win (4-1)
Even so, the Vikings have the personnel to overcome them. And if they can also handle the intimidating atmosphere on the road, it'll be another victory.
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