POSITION OVERVIEW: The Vikings were happy to work out a deal with Jones to have him return for a third season. The completeness in his game, his sportsmanship (he was nominated for the Art Rooney award in 2024), commitment to the community (Minnesota's Salute to Service Award winner the past two seasons), willingness and ability to be a mentor, and desire to remain here are all factors for why Minnesota hoped to return the RB for his 10th pro season.
As much as the Vikings like Jones, a runway also existed for Mason to come into his own and emerge from his time in a crowded backfield with the 49ers. He was credited with breaking 13 tackles and racked up 385 yards after contact, which was 50.8 percent of his rushing yardage total. For comparison's sake, Jones was credited with breaking five tackles and totaled 234 yards after contact.
Ideally, the health of the 2026 offensive line will be vastly improved over 2025 when Minnesota used 26 combinations of players across five positions. That group could help set the tone for running backs and give Jones some space to get his wheels turning and Mason more of an opportunity to pick up steam.
Scott's demeanor is such that he's going to reach for his best every single day while continuing to develop his game. He blends well with the group, and his receiving chops — as well as opportunities on special teams — could be quite helpful.
The Vikings also added to their backfield during the draft, first tabbing Bredeson (the draft's top-rated fullback) at 159 overall and Claiborne at 198.
Those moves could amount to a smash-and-dash grab on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Pads obviously weren't on during the offseason program, but Bredeson moved around the formation and navigated to the points of attack with confidence.
Claiborne's speed — he ran the 40 in 4.37 seconds — has been the most conspicuously absent trait in the Vikings backfield the past couple of years. It is something that excites coaches, and he's enthused about learning everything he can from the likes of Jones and Mason.
We'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention the productivity of Owens, who set a Florida International record with 1,334 rushing yards in 2025 and led the team with 11 rushing TDs (third most in a season by a Panther).
WHAT TO WATCH IF YOU MAKE IT TO CAMP: (Players): There are a few things worth your time. Aside from soaking up what Jones routinely has done to fuel his impressive career, look for Mason's increased comfort in his second season in the system. Claiborne's speed and ease of opening things up is something likely to surface. (Scheme tweaks): The Vikings might be tracking a little wider on zone runs than they have in previous seasons under O'Connell, who implemented quite a bit of mid zone upon his arrival in 2022. (Mentality): This involves all 11 on offense, but the emphasis on the run game this offseason could foreshadow an intensified purpose in running the football. Days with pads ought to be interesting.