Unless you buy what Geurin wants to sell with the name Vladimir Tarasenko, or Nico Sturm being a Stanley Cup cog, there’s a lot to be desired. That’s an unfortunate reality after all of the waiting fans from the newly named Xcel Energy Center have done.

That reality isn’t lost on those evaluating that leagues happenings either.

Mediocrity defines MN Wild offseason

Although the offseason really just got underway, plenty of defining moves have already taken place. There is now a shortage of openly available talent and the Minnesota Wild didn’t do any heavy lifting. The Athletic’s Michael Russo weighed in after assigning the team a C+ grade.

“The Wild had hoped to sign Brock Nelson in free agency, but he re-signed in Colorado. They wanted to sign Brock Boeser, but when it became clear he had other options, they pivoted to Vladimir Tarasenko on a one-year bet that his career can be reinvigorated. Nico Sturm should help their penalty-kill and faceoff needs, but this was not the July 1 “Christmas” fans expected after four years of buyout shackles limiting their every move.”

Michael Russo – The Athletic

The key word in Russo’s evaluation is “but.” The Minnesota Wild intended to do plenty of things and missed on virtually all of those that carried significant impact.

Maybe Geurin forgot how to be aggressive during the years he was strapped with buyouts for Parise and Suter. Maybe he overplayed what the market for some of these free agents actually would be.

Either way, it results in a very underwhelming crop of talent. It’s likely that Kirill Kaprizov signs an extension, and it will have the potential to make him the league’s highest-paid player. That’s great, but he’s not an addition, and more money doesn’t help them bring in new talent.

Related: Minnesota Wild Arena Renamed

The Wild aren’t along in their rating. 11 different organizations got grades in the “C” range with Minnesota being joined by Vancouver, Anaheim, and Buffalo amongst the “C+” contingent. Only Chicago and Columbus recorded “D” grades.

It remains to be seen how Minnesota will build the rest of the way, and they’ll finally have space to add at the trade deadline. For a team that finished 45-30-7 and exited with another patented first round playoff loss, this doesn’t seem great.

Cap penalties tied to the buyouts of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter are (for all intensive purposes) no more, giving president of hockey operations Bill Guerin more financial flexibility than he has ever had. But now that the proverbial shackles are off, the pressure is on.

There are no excuses anymore. The final pieces to this Minnesota Wild championship puzzle are out there and Billy has all the resources needed — whether via free agency or trade — to put it all together.

We’ve seen some of Guerin’s vision already. A couple of weeks ago, the Wild got a deal done with KHL prospect Danila Yurov, who they selected No. 24 overall in the 2022 NHL Draft. They’ve also shown their cards on Marco Rossi, who they have on the trade block while they send him underwhelming contract offers.

The same cannot be said for veteran forward Marcus Johansson, who has spent the past three seasons in a Minnesota Wild sweater… and soon to be four.

Marcus Johansson signs one-year deal with Minnesota Wild (with no-trade clause)

On Monday, news broke that Johansson is signing on for one-year, $800,000, an extension that Michael Russo teased as a possibility this morning in a new column at The Athletic. Shocker (not): Johansson’s deal includes a full no-trade clause that helped keep his salary number down.

As I alluded today, #mnwild re-sign Marcus Johansson to a one-year, $800,000 contract. Could have been a UFA next month

— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) June 2, 2025

This is actually the extension of Johansson’s second stint in Minnesota, who first wore a Wild uniform in the shortened 2020-21 season. He scored 6 goals and posted 14 points in 36 games that year, along with a -10 (+/-).

After spending 2021-22 season between Seattle and Washington, Marcus landed back in the Land of 10,000 Rinks, when Billy brought him back at the 2022-23 trade deadline, in exchange for a 2024 3rd round pick.

Last season, Johansson played in 72 games for the Minnesota Wild. He matched the same 11 goals he posted during the 2023-24 season, along with 23 assists. His 34 points were the most he had scored for a single team since tallying 58 for the Capitals back in 2016-17.

Related: MN Wild Insider Reveals Latest on Slow-Moving Marco Rossi Trade/Contract Talks

Why did Bill Guerin give Marcus Johansson a full no-trade clause? Well, it helped keep his number down below a million, no doubt. But also, our PoHO hands out no-trade clauses and no-trade lists to veterans to “his guys” as if they are candy at a kid birthday party.

Johansson joins a no-trade club (per PuckPedia.com) that includes Joel Eriksson Ek, Mats Zuccarello, Marcus Foligno and Jake Middleton. Ryan Hartman, Freddy Goudreau and Jared Spurgeon all have no-trade lists of 5-15 teams, depending on the player.

Johansson pondered move back to Sweden

According to Russo, while Johansson likely would have had other NHL suitors offering in the range of $2 million per season during free agency next month, Minnesota’s biggest competition for the Swed’s services was actually his former Swedish Hockey League team, Färjestad.

According to league sources, Johansson, who would have become a free agent July 1, was being lured by his old Swedish Hockey League club, Färjestad, to potentially end his career where it began in the mid-2000s.

Michael Russo – The Athletic

But rather than head back overseas, or look for another NHL deal elsewhere, Billy made sure one of his guys landed back in Wild Christmas colors for at least one more year.

Across 206 games for the Wild, Johansson has 34 goals and 62 assists. The 96 total points trail only the 324 he put up across 579 games with the Washington Capitals. He maintains a veteran presence for a Minnesota team that has right around $15 million left in cap space.

Marcus Johansson, signed 1x$0.8M by MIN, is a veteran playmaking two-way winger. Ended up playing solid minutes for the Wild, using his still-solid wheels and puck skills to contribute in transition. #MNWild pic.twitter.com/KtrGZ44EpM

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 2, 2025

Of course the big questions this summer surround superstar, Kirill Kaprizov. When will the Minnesota Wild sign him to a record-setting new deal and how much will it ultimately cost?

The most glaring positions of weakness remain in the secondary and on the interior offensive line, neither of which was fully addressed last month. The Vikings feel good about the top of their DB depth chart, after bringing back Harrison Smith and Byron Murphy Jr. They’re also extremely bullish on new CB, Isaiah Rodgers.

But the other secondary starters from 2024 — including S Cam Bynum, CB Stephon Gilmore and CB Shaq Griffin — are all gone (at least for now). And while Vikings decision makers may be confident that both Rodgers and safety Theo Jackson are ready for bigger roles in 2025, neither guy has proven themselves as a starter in this league.

Minnesota Vikings claim they are not interested in safeties

For the most part, the Minnesota Vikings haven’t been shy about their plans in the draft. They are targeting interior defensive line, interior offensive line and cornerback. They’ve also shown interest in adding at tight end and wide receiver.

Not only are those the most obvious positions of need on the roster, but the Vikings have also shown a lot of interest in these positions, just based on their list of in-person visits this offseason (combine, top 30, etc).

• Cornerbacks – 6
• Defensive Line – 6
• Offensive Line – 8
• Running Back – 3
• Tight End – 2
• Wide Receiver – 1
• Quarterback 1

But as you may notice from the above positional visitor count, there has been one spot on the roster that those in the Minnesota Vikings organization have tried to make very clear they are NOT interested in upgrading, even if it may appear to be a position of need, on paper.

Kevin O’Connell, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, Brian Flores and multiple local and national insiders have all stated on different occasions that Theo Jackson is their starting free safety in 2025. They’ve backed that up by showing ZERO public interest in safeties this entire offseason.

Related: Rival Execs Continue to Question Minnesota Vikings Power Structure

Could they be bluffing, though? Is it possible that the Minnesota Vikings have their eyes on one or two safeties at the top of this class? There are multiple safeties projected to go in the back half of the first round. Could the Vikings’ lack of interest in a safety be nothing more than a smoke screen? If so, sportsbooks are not buying it.

Vegas pegs safety as top target for Vikings, even if team won’t

Not only does Vegas have safety as a good possibility for the Vikings’ first overall pick later this month, but all of the major sportsbooks have safety either tied as the most likely position they draft first, at + 200, or right behind cornerback (+300). DraftKings, FanDuel and ESPN Bet all agree that defensive back is the likely top pick for Minnesota, whether that be at safety or cornerback.

As we mentioned at the top of this article, the Minnesota Vikings enter the 2025 NFL Draft trying to convince those around them that they don’t have any desperate needs at the top of their depth chart, especially at safety. Whether or not that proves true in three weeks is yet to be seen.

But one thing is for sure, nobody was saying that a month ago, when half of the Vikings’ 2024 roster was scheduled to hit free agency. That’s why, with only four draft picks upcoming at the end of April, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and the other top decision makers at TCO Performance Center zeroed in on 2025 free agency as their plan A to improve the roster this offseason.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Cut Depth Cornerback and Former Trade Acquisition

While some might argue over the age and injury history of their new free agency class, there is no doubt the Vikings look a lot better now than they did just one month ago.

Entering the draft, they’ve already shored up the secondary, offensive and defensive lines with re-signings and four new top 75 free agents (three in the top 15), according to The Athletic’s Top 150 Free Agency rankings — DT Jonathan Allen (No. 10) DT Javon Hargrave (No. 11), OG Will Fries (No. 14) and C Ryan Kelly (No. 74).

One of those questions surrounds their guards. Dalton Risner is a free agent, but after the line gave up nine sacks in the playoffs his services might not be retained. Ed Ingram, who was replaced by Risner in Week 11, is a potential cut candidate. Blake Brandel held down left guard all year, but he struggled in his first season as a starter. As a unit, the offensive line ranked 27th in the league in pass blocking efficiency.

This combination of factors may lead to a complete overhaul of the Vikings’ interior linemen. Below, I offer some options the Vikings could consider picking up in free agency at different price points. All contract projections are from Spotrac and are listed in Average Annual Value (AAV).

Top Shelf NFL Guard Free Agents for Minnesota Vikings

The “Top Shelf” guys are a little pricey, but they are the most elite options on the market right now. The Minnesota Vikings have the seventh-highest cap space but might not want to spend it all on guards. That’s a decision for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah to make. If he does, these are the players he should look at.

Trey Smith – $19.7M AAV

When thinking about top-of-the-line free agent guards this offseason, Trey Smith is the headliner. The 25-year-old sixth-round pick turned in the best year of his short career in 2024. He was elected to his first Pro Bowl and didn’t allow a sack the entire regular season. He was also a top-10 guard on PFF among those who played at least 16 games. You won’t find many other guys his age putting up those numbers.

Related: Vikings Have Plethora of Free Agent Guards to Choose From

Smith’s skill is the reason for his only downside: his contract. Spotrac projects a 4 year, $78.8 million deal in his future, with other experts saying he’ll garner $20 million or more per year. There’s a good chance he will depart Kansas City because of his price tag, and Minnesota could be the landing spot with their nearly $60 million in cap space.

Will Fries – $14.1M AAV

Fries was putting up elite numbers before fracturing his tibia in Week 5 and missing the rest of the season. He had a PFF grade of 86.9, which was fourth among his position. He’s started 27 games for the Colts over the past three seasons and is only 26, making his price tag higher than most.

The tibia fracture could lead to some hesitance in signing him. A typical tibia fracture takes four to six months to heal, which means Fries would be ready in time for training camp. However, there’s no guarantee it heals up in that time. There’s also the re-injury risk to take into account. Despite that, acquiring another young lineman to suit up next to Brian O’Neill would go a long way.

The Will Fries film is actually very good, my brand is thriving right now pic.twitter.com/DQdnX7I7rF

— Zach Hicks (@ZachHicks2) September 9, 2024

Smart Investment NFL Guard Free Agents for Vikings

Getting someone for less than the market max might be a smarter idea for the Minnesota Vikings. That’s where the “Smart Investment” comes in. These guys are a little cheaper and could end up being better than the top shelf players this season.

Teven Jenkins – $10.3M AAV

The Bears may have given up the most sacks this season, but most of that did not fall on Jenkins. He ranked top 20 in both run and pass protection and will only be 27 years old in 2025. He moved from left tackle to guard early in his career, so he could bring some versatility if the line gets banged up.

Some of the line’s lack of availability might be because of him, however. Jenkins’ downside is that he hasn’t played a full season since entering the league in 2021. He maxed out at 14 games this past season while dealing with calf, ankle and knee injuries. In the past, he’s also dealt with hip, neck and rib injuries as well as a concussion.

Related: Re-Signing Top DB is High Priority for Vikings but There’s a Catch…

Despite his fragility, getting Jenkins for $10 million a year wouldn’t be a bad option for the Vikings. He is a force to be reckoned with at 6-foot-6, 321 pounds and is getting more comfortable being an interior lineman.

To see how much Jenkins could be worth, look towards fellow 2021 second-round pick Sam Cosmi. The guard signed a four-year, $74 million extension with the Washington Commanders before last season. This means Jenkins’ price may be higher than Spotrac projects.

Vikings fans…

This absolute BUS of a right guard — Mekhi Becton — is an unrestricted free agent… pic.twitter.com/8mBJNP6wtN

— Phil Mackey 🎙 (@PhilMackey) January 19, 2025

Mekhi Becton – $10.2M AAV

Perhaps the biggest guard in the free agent class at 6-foot-7, 363 pounds, Becton is coming off a career season. He helped the Eagles win Super Bowl LIX and helped Saquon Barkley lead the league in rushing. It was his first year in Philadelphia and his first year as a guard after spending four seasons at left tackle for the Jets.

The Eagles actually started training camp with Becton on the bench, electing to roll with third-round pick Tyler Steen instead. Steen went down with an ankle injury a few days into camp, so Becton moved over to guard and never looked back.

With the Eagles’ success in developing offensive lineman, there’s a chance they won’t want to pay Becton the kind of money he’s commanding. That gives a team like the Minnesota Vikings a chance to swoop in with a better offer.

Related: Former Minnesota Vikings Starting Lineman Looks Like a Cap Casualty

Becton’s 75.2 PFF grade was 21st among all guards, so at 25 years old he’s a fairly solid option. It’s the highest grade of his career following lackluster seasons with the Jets, two of which he missed due to a knee injury. Maybe the move to guard was what he needed to maintain consistency, and maybe the Vikings can take advantage.

On Sale NFL Guard Free Agents for Minnesota Vikings

“On Sale” doesn’t mean bottom of the barrel. These players are just offered at an even cheaper price than the “Smart Investment” guys while still being good options. There’s a few veterans who could make this list, but in the interest of playing to the Vikings’ strengths, keeping the age of the offensive line low is the best bet.

James Daniels – $7.8M AAV

Daniels is similar to Fries, as he was also putting up elite stats before an injury sidelined him for the season. In fact, Daniels’ 92.9 PFF grade was second among guards before he tore his Achilles in Week 4. He’s only 27 but has spent seven years as a starter, experience that will be fruitful if the Vikings end up starting the young J.J. McCarthy.

He’s one of the more highly touted free agent guards, but who knows how he will look coming back from a serious injury. It does make his price tag a little less compared to some of the other options, so it might be worth a look from the Minnesota Vikings.

Evan Brown – $4.7M AAV

Brown’s had some inconsistency throughout his career, but that could be because he’s been on five teams in six years. Going undrafted in 2018, Brown came into the league as a center but started all 17 games at left guard with Arizona this season.

Related: Failing to Tag Sam Darnold Would Be Organizational Malpractice by Vikings

That resulted in him putting up his best PFF grade (65.9) since 2021, so maybe the move to guard was what he needed. Time will tell if he can maintain those numbers. The Cardinals offense didn’t jump off the page this season, but they were still second in yards per carry (5.3) and fifth in sacks allowed (30).

Brown’s numbers were pretty average on their own, but he keeps the age of the offensive line down and is offered at a relatively cheap price. His experience and versatility would make him a nice fit for the Vikings.

Two key pending free agent defensive backs that the Vikings have to make decisions on sooner than later are safety Cam Bynum and cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. Both have had strong seasons, both are in line for raises and both contracts are due to void on Monday.

Minnesota Vikings picking and choosing between defensive backs

The Minnesota Vikings have money to play with but they have a lot of pending free agents, too. Nonetheless, the secondary stands out as one position group that is really in flux, with all six of the most important players (Smith, Bynum, Murphy, Gilmore, Metellus and Griffin) all set to hit free agency or retire.

So, what are general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and defensive coordinator Brian Flores going to do? Well according to a new report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Vikings are currently leaning toward re-signing Cam Bynum, who was drafted in 2021 and coming off his rookie contract. Unfortunately, same cannot be said for how conversations are currently looking between the front office and cornerback Byron Murphy Jr…

Several free agents — Byron Murphy II, Camryn Bynum, Cam Robinson, Aaron Jones — could get cushy deals elsewhere, but GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has shown adaptability in adding new talent. (A prime example is last season’s pass-rush duo of Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel.) In the secondary, the sense here is Murphy walks but Bynum could stay under a new deal.

Jeremy Fowler – ESPN

Fowler brings up a solid point. We know for that that the MN Vikings GM isn’t afraid to let players walk if it means finding better cap-friendly options. Last season was a perfect example of that. He let vets like Kirk Cousins and Danielle Hunter walk.

Then, he replaced them with less proven, but cheaper options, Sam Darnold, Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel, all of whom had standout years. Now, we can expect to see the same at a lot of these other positions (plus QB again).

Why Cam Bynum over Byron Murphy Jr?

Now that some of these aging defensive backs are wanting to get paid, there will be some that the GM sees as worthy and others who are not. Cam Bynum and Byron Murphy Jr are both going to get paid this offseason and it sounds like the Minnesota Vikings aren’t willing to put that many financial eggs into their secondary basket.

I’d imagine Bynum is the favorite because he’ll be cheaper. Murphy is now projected to get $22.1 million per year (4 years) this offseason, according to Spotrac. Bynum won’t be cheap, either. He is projected to make $17.7 million per year (3 years) by the same projections, making it much less risky.

Related: What are the Vikings Odds to Land Aaron Rodgers? Pretty Good…

Camryn Bynum was on the field for 1,056 snaps this season for the Minnesota Vikings, finishing with 67 solo tackles and three interceptions. His performance earned him a 61.6 grade from Pro Football Focus. Meanwhile, Byron Murphy Jr. logged 1,109 snaps, recording 72 tackles and six interceptions. He posted a 73.4 PFF grade and capped off his season with a Pro Bowl selection.

If Fowler’s sense’s are accurate, saying goodbye to Murphy won’t be easy. The cornerback, who joined Minnesota in the summer of 2023, put together two solid seasons in purple. But that’s just the reality of the business. Now, it’s a waiting game to see what the MN Vikings decide officially.

Blake Brandel is locked down at left guard for at least one more season, but he underperformed in what was his first year as a full-time starter. At right guard, Ed Ingram started the year for the Vikings. He was benched in favor of Dalton Risner in Week 11, though. At the time of his benching, the second-round pick Ingram ranked 60th in PFF pass blocking out of the 62 guards who played at least 300 snaps up to that point.

The expectation is that Ingram will be released this offseason, avoiding his $3.4 million cap hit. Risner is a free agent and will likely not be resigned. Although Brandel started all 17 games, he has failed to register a PFF grade above 56 for any season in his career. With over $63 million in cap space, the expectation is that Minnesota will bring in some reinforcements at guard through free agency.

Related: Four Pending Free Agents the Vikings Need to Bring Back

Top free agent guards for Minnesota Vikings to consider

The biggest name to watch is Kansas City Chiefs guard Trey Smith. ESPN ranks him as the No. 2 free agent this offseason. The Minnesota Vikings’ struggles at the position make him a no-brainer for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

The problem with that? Trey Smith is projected to become the highest paid guard in the league, garnering upwards of $20 million a year. The price tag is no doubt worth it, as you’d be acquiring a 6-foot-6, 321-pound force who’s only 25 years old. But it’d be very surprising if Adofo-Mensah spent much effort signing him, especially when teams like the Bears have more cap space and are in pursuit.

…this 3rd Down 1on1 pass pro rep from Trey Smith on Myles Garrett was gorgeous.

You don't see many OL stone/toss Garrett on that rip move. Didn't line up here often but this is Gladiator stuff. @BrandonThornNFL @BigDuke50 pic.twitter.com/TM0917c7rq

— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) December 16, 2024

Will Fries might be a smarter choice from the Colts. His 86.9 PFF grade is fourth-best at guard, higher than Smith. But he fractured his tibia in Week 5 and missed the rest of the year. There’s also Tevin Jenkins from the Bears. Chicago allowed the most sacks this season, yet Jenkins ranked top 20 in run and pass protection. However, he’s never played a full 17-game season.

The Minnesota Vikings can also look towards established veterans, such as the Lions’ Kevin Zeitler, the Jaguars’ Brandon Scherff or the Cowboys’ Zack Martin. All three of these guys will be in their mid-30s when the season starts, but that usually means a cheaper price.

Related: NFL Insider Offers Updates on Multiple Vikings Free Agents

The best fit for MN

All the names mentioned make sense for the Vikings. But to get true production from their guards, they need players who fit their scheme and cover weaknesses. The offensive line is in their mid-to-late 20s. Keeping this age range will help keep the group together for next season and beyond.

First, consider Patrick Mekari from the Ravens. He supported Derrick Henry’s 1,921 rushing yards (2nd in the league) and Lamar Jackson’s 4,172 passing yards (6th). Baltimore had the top offense in yards per game with Mekari’s versatility on the line. He’s played all five positions and is only 27. This versatility will help the injury-prone Vikings.

Vikings fans…

This absolute BUS of a right guard — Mekhi Becton — is an unrestricted free agent… pic.twitter.com/8mBJNP6wtN

— Phil Mackey 🎙 (@PhilMackey) January 19, 2025

If the Vikings can sign Mekari cheaply, they could chase Mekhi Becton from the Eagles. Becton switched from tackle to guard this year, adding flexibility. He aided Saquon Barkley’s league-leading 2,005 rushing yards. Becton’s size is impressive at 6-foot-7, 363 pounds.

While getting a veteran on a one or two-year deal might be smart for depth purposes, you typically don’t want to rely on them for your multi-season rebuild. Additionally, Minnesota struggled in the run game this past season, so acquiring guards from the top two rushing offenses in the NFL would be a smart decision. Then, they will just need to find a running back to run behind them.

Related: Vikings Defensive Assistant Lands New Job Interview

Last offseason the Twins most significant move came in the form of a multi-player trade involving Jorge Polanco. They could reasonably move pieces around like that again. If there are dollars that make themselves available, then adding from the open market makes a good deal of sense.

What free agents make sense for the Minnesota Twins?

Each season Major League Baseball organizations find themselves looking to supplement their roster from the open market. Last year the Minnesota Twins did well when coming to an agreement with Carlos Santana. He was a later addition that should wind up winning a Glove Glove, and only costing them a nominal amount. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden provided potential names that Derek Falvey may want to consider.

There is plenty to digest here but the theme (which should not be shocking) is pitching. Yusei Kikuchi is a name that the Twins have been in on during multiple occasions. He probably earned a decent pay bump with his performance following the trade to Houston, and that could take him off the market. Sean Manaea and Jordan Montgomery would both give Minnesota a lefty option. The latter should absolutely exercise his $22.5 million player option and avoid free agency.

Yusei Kikuchi Astros debut:

5.2 IP
2 ER
11 Ks
3 H
3 BB
26 whiffs (career-high)

He struck out 8 consecutive hitters.

pic.twitter.com/2n2J5N0CaA

— Underdog MLB (@Underdog__MLB) August 3, 2024

Related: Ranking: 10 Most Likely Minnesota Twins to be Traded This Offseason

The vast majority of Bowden’s list poses a problem because they will command at least a significant chunk of change. Sure, Jurickson Profar made nothing last season, but he just earned a big payday. It’s possible the Twins non-tender Willi Castro for being too expensive, so Profar probably isn’t going to be someone they dabble with.

Related: BR Makes a Case for Why Minnesota Twins Should Trade Byron Buxton

Minnesota may believe either Alex Verdugo or Rhys Hoskins are buy-low candidates. The former could play the outfield corner vacated by Max Kepler. It’s unlikely that Santana returns to play first base, so maybe Hoskins is the answer at a lesser number.

Rhys Hoskins extends the @Brewers lead with home run No. 23. 💥 pic.twitter.com/pxvb5yL9wA

— MLB (@MLB) September 2, 2024

Very little should be expected from the Twins on the open market this offseason. That may change depending on how aggressive, and how quickly, they are able to make some trades. Falvey is being forced to thread the needle once again, and that makes roster building a tough task. He will have the benefit of multiple young players being in their second season, and additional prospects should be coming.

Related: Minnesota Twins Plan to Shop at Least One Young Infielder This Offseason

The World Series kicks off on Friday, and following a big spender winning, the offseason will commence in earnest. It’s too bad that the Twins can’t won’t just rack up a $300 million bill, sign everyone, and call it a day.

And when it does end, even if it’s after confetti falls on horned helmets for the first time ever, the Vikings’ injured QB1 Kirk Cousins will be weeks away from becoming an unrestricted free agent for the first time since 2018.

Vikings, Cousins both very interested in staying together

Last we heard, however, Kirk was very interested in remaining with the Vikings and Minnesota was planning an attempt to sign him back before that happens. Now, it appears the two sides could be even closer together on a deal than previously anticipated.

According to Jordan Schultz (Bleacher Report), both sides are very receptive to more time together. Not only that, but Schultz is reporting that Cousins may even be interested in a one-year deal, instead of demanding something that guarantees him two or three years.

Kirk Cousins and the #Vikings are very receptive to a 2024 return. His relationship with HC Kevin O’Connell is a key factor, as is the equity he’s built within the locker room.

🎥: @BleacherReport @brgridiron pic.twitter.com/glvIn3GHFy

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) November 15, 2023

So it’s possible that GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah Zygi and Mark Wilf won’t have to make a long-term decision on their future plan at QB after all.

Related: Nothing Will Stop Kirk Cousins From Doing Charity Work

What is Kirk Cousins worth on open market?

Obviously, the question hanging over this entire situation is the same as what hangs over almost every adult decision in today’s world: MONEY. How much will Kirk Cousins cost, if he hits free agency? And, is it possible the Minnesota Vikings could get a sweetheart deal, compared to what he’d take elsewhere?

Let’s turn to ESPN insider, Jeremy Fowler, for the answer to that first question. He pins Kirk’s open mark cost, if signed as a free agent, at about $37.5 million per season. Teams he has talked to tell Fowler that Cousins would get part of his new contract guaranteed, but it wouldn’t be the fully guaranteed deal he’s enjoyed since signing in Minnesota.

Cousins’ current contract states he cannot be franchise-tagged, so it’s open season for the accomplished quarterback. That said, staying in Minnesota is still on the table. Teams I’ve talked to project a Derek Carr-like market ($37.5 million annually) with stronger guarantees, though perhaps not the fully guaranteed deals that Cousins has enjoyed in the past.

Jeremy Fowler – ESPN

Cousins floor if signed as free agent: ~$37.5 million per season

Personally, I think the executives Fowler is talking to are low-balling him on what Kirk Cousins can get in free agency. If Derek Carr can get $37.5 million per season, then I’m firing my agent if I’m Cousins and he can’t get me at least $40 million, even off an Achilles tear.

Kirk hasn’t played in over two weeks, yet he still ranks 3rd among NFL QBs in TD passes (18) and 10th in passing yards (2,331) this season. In both categories, he’s better than Derek Carr, who’s started all 10 games this season for the Saints and posted just 10 TD passes to go with 2,231 yards.

2023 Passing TD Leaders:

19 – Tua Tagovailoa
18 – Kirk Cousins
18 – Josh Allen
17 – Patrick Mahomes
17 – Justin Herbert

All Leaders: https://t.co/S5qfpovDx6 pic.twitter.com/nX9GwSE9jb

— Pro Football Reference (@pfref) November 13, 2023

Let’s just call $37.5 million the floor, in what Cousins is expected to cost this offseason, if he were to hit the open market. On a one year deal, even though they wouldn’t get much of a discount, I’m guessing the Vikings would jump at the opportunity to pay Cousins $35-40 million to be their QB in 2024.

Until this point, common belief around the NFL was that Cousins would want two or three years on a new deal, with at least part of it guaranteed. But knowing Cousins’ infatuation with fully-guaranteed contracts and controlling his own destiny, a one-year deal might make sense.

Related: 3 Reasons Why Vikings Keep Winning, Despite Injuries and Slow Start

On the open market, a 3 year deal (2 GTD) probably means $36 to $38 million per season, and not all of it would be guaranteed. A one year contract could get Kirk closer to $40 million and give him another chance to control his fate going into 2025, with plenty of options to cash in again for the going one-year rate for top-10 QBs.

Will Kirk Cousins give the Minnesota Vikings a discount?

If I’m the Wilfs and I want to let Kirk Cousins know we are serious about retiring him a Viking and leaning on his arm for the next two or three years, while we try to find his replacement in 2026 or 2027, I start negotiations this offseason at a 3-year deal worth an average of $33-$34 million per season.

I’d offer it with the first two years fully guaranteed and a cheap team option for year three. Yes, flexibility and one-year deals are nice but a longer term contract allows you to save some money and cements Cousins as the team’s unquestioned leader, without the asterisk of pending free agency.

From there, the only thing I’m willing to budge much on would be the cost of the team option. If he wants more guaranteed money or a higher AAV, then I’d take him up on his willingness to sign for just one season.

If a short-term deal is on the table, that’s probably what happens

But w know Kirk Cousins wants to stay here, raise his kids in Eagan and chase a few Super Bowls with Justin Jefferson and Kevin O’Connell. He can cut a few million off the top of his yearly salary to make sure that happens, especially knowing that will help the Vikings pay the talent required to make deep playoff runs.

But again, all of this is hypothetical, for now. At some point, I expect Josh Dobbs to come down to earth and make the Vikings miss Kirk Cousins. If he somehow finds a new level to his game, under KOC’s tutelage, then this entire conversation changes in a big way.

And, no matter what I think is the best path forward, I’m guessing the Vikings will take future flexibility over saving a few million bucks against next year’s cap. If Cousins really is willing to sign on a one-year term, I’d put my chips all-in on that being the team’s QB plan for 2024.

It's a 2-year deal worth roughly $22M, per me and @TomPelissero. One of the top CBs on the market. https://t.co/DhXW2eGVK7

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 15, 2023

Who is Byron Murphy Jr?

Murphy is 24-years-old and has four years of NFL experience. Clearly, Kwesi has a type. He is into young players who have yet to hit their potential. Those types of players want shorter, prove-it type deals and, in theory, they should be hungry.

Through three seasons, Byron Murphy Jr stayed pretty healthy, logging about 2800 snaps and playing nearly every game. He suffered a grade 2 lower back strain halfway through 2022, however, and was placed on the injured reserve for the final 9 weeks of the season.

PFF is luke warm on Murphy. Others love him. But one thing is for sure. The Minnesota Vikings have their new CB1.

Excellent signing. A 25 year old CB with nickel and outside experience that thrives in man coverage. Exactly what MIN needed. https://t.co/fdXGEbB2Dm

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) March 15, 2023

Byron Murphy Jr picks off Stafford! pic.twitter.com/knfV0H0Ayv

— Main Team (@MainTeamSports) October 3, 2021

CB Byron Murphy is VERSATILE???? pic.twitter.com/F3Wn6YB2qY

— vikesinsider (@vikesinsider) March 15, 2023

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan

Vikings attend Odell Beckham Jr’s workout

Beckham, now 30-years-old, held a private workout over the weekend and the Vikings were one of eleven teams in attendance. Shocker (not) … he looked great.

Had to show love to my guy @obj at his private workout! pic.twitter.com/Nu4OJm1lOL

— Prince Amukamara (@PrinceAmukamara) March 11, 2023

Not only does OBJ fit exactly what the Minnesota Vikings offense needs, but he has connections all over the roster. He and Kevin O’Connell won a Super Bowl together in LA and Justin Jefferson is a fellow LSU alum.

You might remember, Odell was banned from LSU campus for two years after passing out stacks of cash to JJ and other players after the Tigers won the National Championship in 2019. For all of these reasons and more, OBJ to the Vikings makes sense.

If you’re worried about locker room chemistry or that Beckham Jr might cause problems off the field, don’t. Because the players currently in that locker room would love to see OBJ wear the purple and gold.

Vikings Players Recruit OBJ on Twitter

How do we know? On Monday night, a few of them were openly courting him on Twitter. It started with (LB) Brian Asamoah, before (CB) Akayleb Evans and (LT) Christian Darrisaw joined in on OBJ’s recruitment.

Can we call it a modern-day version of Ryan Longwell, Steve Hutchinson and Jared Allen flying to Mississippi, to recruit Brett Favre out of retirement? Maybe, maybe not. But you know what they say: ‘comparisons will steal your joy’.

@obj stop playing…

— Brian Asamoah II (@brianasamoah) March 14, 2023

Yooo @obj

— Akayleb Evans (@AkaylebEvans) March 14, 2023

???????? https://t.co/etNzWOHW9d

— Christian Darrisaw (@chrisdarrisaw71) March 14, 2023

How likely is it that OBJ lands in Minnesota?

Odell is said to be asking for $20 million per season, a number he’s unlikely to get in any type of guaranteed contract. So, this process could drag out for a bit. But that could be a good thing for the Vikings because they’re still trying to figure out how much they are buying vs selling for next season.

Currently, Kwesi & Co can’t afford a Snickers bar out of the TCO Performance Center vending machine, let alone a high-priced free agent wide receiver. But could that change by the time OBJ is ready to make his decision? Many players on roster obviously hope so (and so do I).

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan