The Minnesota Vikings have a lot of work to do during the 2025 NFL offseason. Minnesota has already lost multiple starters during NFL free agency, including QB Sam Darnold who signed with the Seahawks. The Vikings just added one former Pro Bowler who will beef up their defensive line.
The Vikings have agreed to terms on a contract with veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen per ESPN's Adam Schefter. Minnesota gave Allen a three-year deal worth $60 million.
Allen is a two-time Pro Bowler with the Commanders. He will become an immediate upgrade on the interior of Minnesota's defensive line.
Allen currently projects as a starter on the Vikings d-line next to Harrison Phillips and Jerry Tillery.
The Vikings got Allen at a nice rate in part due to his age and injury history. Allen has missed time with multiple injuries during his NFL career, including three separate injuries to his right knee.
Thankfully, he's shown signs of being resilient recently. Allen suffered a left pectoral injury in Week 6 of the 2024 season and was feared to miss the entire season. However, Allen recovered quickly and ended up returning for Washington's playoff run.
The Vikings must be thrilled to have landed a player like Allen.
Vikings lose multiple 2024 starters on first day of NFL free agency
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) reacts as he walks off the field after losing to the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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The Vikings lost some important players on the first day of NFL free agency.
QB Sam Darnold is the biggest loss. The Seahawks gave Darnold a three-year contract worth $100 million. These are the same terms as Baker Mayfield's contract with the Buccaneers from last offseason.
Before free agency, there was hope that the Vikings and Darnold could agree on an extension. Unfortunately, it seems his perspective changed after Geno Smith was traded to the Raiders. Now the Vikings can enter the 2025 season with JJ McCarthy as their starting quarterback.
Minnesota also failed to retain safety Camryn Bynum. Bynum signed a four-year, $60 million contract with the Colts on Monday. Losing Bynum introduces some tough questions for Minnesota at the safety position.
The Vikings recently re-signed Theo Jackson, who is now the only free safety on the roster. Harrison Smith has been Minnesota's starting strong safety for years, but his future is unknown at 36 years old.
Minnesota is now in the market for a backup quarterback behind McCarthy, especially after losing Nick Mullens. They also need to add a starting free safety.
Vikings fans should keep their eyes peeled for more moves this week.