The start of training camp is about much more than roster battles. For the Minnesota Vikings, the next few weeks will determine whether this team is ready to take the next step in 2026.
Every position group enters camp with at least one important question to answer, whether it’s a young player proving he belongs, a veteran returning from injury, or a competition that could reshape the depth chart. From quarterback to special teams, here’s the one thing every Vikings position must prove before the regular season begins.
QB: Can either passer distance himself from the other?
There’s no doubt about it: Minnesota’s training camp coverage will mostly focus on the quarterback competition between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy.
The latter started last year, but the results left a lot to be desired. The former missed most of last year with a foot injury and the tanking Cardinals had no reason to start him late in the year. Both passers have some intriguing tools, but inconsistency has been a factor. There’s a reason why Murray is in the Twin Cities and it’s because they both failed to convince their employers in 2025 that they should lead the organization moving forward.
In OTAs and minicamp, neither passer ran away with the starting role. Those who expected Murray to quickly separate himself didn’t get that answer during the spring. In the meantime, McCarthy has reportedly shown growth.
Training camp isn’t about naming a starter. It’s about finding the quarterback who gives the Vikings a chance to compete in January. If neither player creates real separation over the next few weeks, it’ll be hard to have too much confidence entering the season.
RB: Can Zavier Scott or Demond Claiborne enter the rotation?
At running back, the Vikings feature a one-two punch of Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason. Jones is more of a finesse runner, who’s providing value in the passing game as a blocker and pass-catcher. Mason is a big-bodied bruiser who’s more explosive, but also lacks that pass-game skill set.
A third back might not be entirely needed if both stay healthy, but it’s still a plus to have a reliable third guy available who can help give the starters a breather. Scott and Claiborne are different players. The former has a bigger back and has already shown promise as a receiver and blocker, while Claiborne offers the most explosiveness in that room.
It’s unlikely that both could earn a big role, but who’s actually third on the depth chart?
WR: Can the new quarterbacks unlock this group?
Last season, all the receivers struggled to meet their usual statistical milestones. It took Justin Jefferson until Week 18 to reach 1,000 yards in a season in which he was fully healthy. A ridiculous reality. Jordan Addison had the worst season (a suspension didn’t help) and even tight end T.J. Hockenson was a shell of himself in the receiving column. Only Jalen Nailor produced at an expected level.
This year, the Vikings once again feature an elite receiving trio. Jefferson and Addison will be supported by Jauan Jennings, who brings size and toughness to the room. Last year’s passers struggled to feed their targets and there’s a good chance the starting job comes down to the connection with the receivers. McCarthy got a head start last year, but never found any rhythm with Jefferson.
TE: Can Gavin Bartholomew earn a real role?
Just like running back, the top two tight ends are set in stone. Hockenson and blocker Josh Oliver are handsomely paid and should be the obvious key contributors. But the usage of the third tight ends has gotten a massive boost around the league.
In 2025, the Vikings spent a sixth-rounder to bring Pittsburgh’s Gavin Bartholomew to the Twin Cities. A severe back injury cost him his entire rookie season. Fellow rookie Ben Yurosek took his spot, but there’s a reason why he went undrafted and Bartholomew didn’t. There’s some athletic upside, especially as a receiver. Is his career already in jeopardy, or can he unseat his new rival?
OL: Can Christian Darrisaw prove he’s fully healthy?
The offensive line couldn’t provide the expected protection in 2025 despite massive investments. Injuries haunted the unit all year. Center Ryan Kelly has since retired, but the remaining four starters return for 2026.
It’s not hard to see Christian Darrisaw’s impact when he’s on the field. He simply can’t be replaced by a backup-caliber offensive tackle. His knee injury, suffered halfway through the 2024 season, bothered him throughout the end of last year, and he was never able to return to previous heights. The hope is that a full offseason helps him get back on track. The offense will look entirely different with him at full strength.
We’ll quickly see whether he’s participating in all the drills and if there’s a massive brace or not.
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