Allen emphasized the importance of establishing a stronger ground game, suggesting the team could benefit from a young back to challenge current options Aaron Jones Sr. and Jordan Mason. He pointed to the Super Bowl winners’ reliance on a strong run game and play-action to control the game, underscoring the need to find ways to get the ball to one of the NFL’s elite receivers, presumably referring to Justin Jefferson.
The Vikings did not produce a 1,000-yard rusher in 2025, making Round 5 an area of potential improvement for a rotational or emerge-ready back who could compete for carries. Minnesota’s draft strategy thus far leaves the running back room as a clear area for evaluation in the final rounds.
In the passing game, Jefferson also touched on the QB competition likely to unfold this offseason, with Kyler Murray expected to win the Week 1 starter job after joining Minnesota. Jefferson said the addition should spark competition and push the room to maximize performance in training camp and beyond, while also acknowledging the opportunity for J.J. McCarthy to grow amid pressure to secure the job.
Jefferson added that Murray’s arrival could provide an exciting spark, but he stressed the value of a healthy competition that would require McCarthy to elevate his play if he hopes to solidify a Week 1 role. The dynamic among the quarterback room is shaping up as a key storyline for Minnesota as the draft concludes and rookies begin to integrate.
