The Minnesota Vikings closed out the 2025 season on a high note with a five-game winning streak, finishing at 9-8. While that record might not scream "playoff contender," it paints an optimistic picture for 2026—especially with some key moves in the works.

The biggest headline? The potential addition of quarterback Kyler Murray. Pairing his dynamic playmaking ability with Kevin O'Connell's offensive scheme could breathe new life into a unit that struggled at times last season. And let's not forget the defense: the Vikings ranked third in the league in total yards allowed in 2025, giving them a rock-solid foundation to build on.

Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport believes this team could contend if Murray can mesh with the system. "Kyler Murray hasn't officially been named Minnesota's starting quarterback yet, but given how McCarthy has played to date, that announcement is coming," Davenport notes. "Murray is a two-time Pro Bowler who will have plenty of passing-game weapons."

Of course, there are challenges. The NFC North is stacked, and the Vikings may be the fourth-best team in the division on paper. Longtime safety Harrison Smith is gone, and the defensive line could feature rookie starters in Caleb Banks and Domonique Orange. But the core remains strong. If O'Connell can coach Murray back to his early-career form—and the defense continues its second-half dominance from 2025—this team has the potential to not only return to the playoffs but win games once they get there.

Getting Murray to exceed the low bar set by last year's quarterback room could be the key. If he does, the Vikings might just surprise everyone in 2026.