7 Vikings Offensive Starters Are on Contract Watch
The Minnesota Vikings better make a big splash in 2026 because about half of their starting offensive lineup is scheduled to hit the free-agent market in 2027. Of course, Minnesota has the option to re-sign some or all of the following players; it’s just unlikely that every single one would return.
Listed in alphabetical order, here’s the list.
Vikings’ 2027 Offense Could Look Dramatically Different
1. Blake Brandel (C)
Brandel is on deck to start at center this year, and he’s been attached to the Vikings since 2020, believe it or not. He’s basically played every position on the offensive line in the last six seasons, with an almighty audition at center upcoming.
The Vikings may lock him down this summer in the off-chance he excels at center, saving some dough, just in case. For example, if Brandel performs at a Top 15 clip among all NFL centers, signing him now for two more years at $6 million per season will be a steal of a deal by 2027.
2. T.J. Hockenson (TE)
Hockenson hasn’t quite posted his 2022 or 2023 numbers since tearing his ACL late in the 2023 campaign, but he has a chance to erupt in 2026 with Kyler Murray in the huddle. Murray helped to shape Trey McBride into a Top 2 tight end down in Arizona. He knows how to get the ball to tight ends.
You should expect an uptick from Hockenson, but we shall see if that’s enough for an extension next offseason. Some thought the Vikings might draft Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, but the New York Jets beat them to it.
SI.com‘s Joe Nelson wrote earlier this offseason, “Finding a tight end may be more likely in free agency than the draft, but with T.J. Hockenson entering his final season under contract, there’s a high chance that Minnesota is at least interested in tight ends in the 2027 draft.”
“Among the best tight ends at this point in the draft process, we’re looking at Jamari Johnson (Oregon), Trey’Dez Green (LSU), Terrance Carter Jr. (Texas Tech), and DJ Vonnahme (Iowa).”
3. Jauan Jennings (WR)
Jennings signed with the Vikings on a base salary of $8 million that climbs to $13 million if he balls out. He’s probably using Minnesota as a stepping stone to a large contract — somewhere — in 2027. Kevin O’Connell should capitalize on the Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jennings combo because it’s likely a one-hit wonder.
4. Aaron Jones (RB)
Jones will not get an extension this offseason; he already accepted a paycut in March. In all likelihood, because he will turn 32 this season, this will be his final year in purple. It’s up to him to make the most of it and stay healthy.
Our Brevan Bane noted last month, “The 31-year-old back understands the gravity of the situation in Minnesota, and he also understands that he won’t have many more opportunities to go out and win a Super Bowl ring. Aaron Jones, and every other player on the roster, would benefit the greatest amount from doing everything he can to be there for each QB when needed.”
“Jones brings priceless experience and mentorship, even if he plays an entire different position. Apparently, his relationship with J.J. McCarthy is strong enough that he doesn’t mind asking for a ride from the airport.”
5. Jordan Mason (RB)
Mason, on the other hand, is only 27 and could reasonably fetch an extension. He’ll probably out-touch Jones within the Vikings’ offense due to his durability and efficiency. He accrued 4.8 yards per carry in 2025 to Jones’s 4.2.
Minnesota could add an extra year or two onto his contract before the regular season begins.
6. Kyler Murray (QB)
Murray has one ginormous chance to a) strut his stuff in Minnesota and land a monster contract extension during the 2027 offseason with the Vikings b) underperform and hit free agency as a journeyman-to-be passer.
Because the Vikings let Sam Darnold walk — the rest is history — there is zero chance that they’ll allow Murray to depart if he plays great with the Vikings in 2026. It’s a do-or-die year for Murray to prove if he’s a franchise quarterback or a guy who bounces around looking for stable employment.
7. Brian O’Neill (RT)
Unless Harrison Smith returns, O’Neill is suddenly the longest-tenured Viking on the current roster. Accordingly, the decision to extend him shouldn’t be that complicated. He’s dependable, good, and a lifer.
It’s also not easy to find foundational offensive tackles. O’Neill will turn 31 in September. He could have a full half-decade left.
The Vikings will probably extend his contract by three years or so, with around $25 million per season heading his way. Getting rid of O’Neill next offseason would be truly bizarre.
You must be logged in to post a comment.