Big Decisions Ahead! The Vikings’ Key Offseason Dates Revealed

A Crucial Offseason for the Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings are heading into a pivotal offseason, one that could shape the future of the franchise for years to come. After a rollercoaster season filled with injuries, tough losses, and flashes of brilliance, the Vikings’ front office has several big decisions ahead. From key player contracts to potential trades and draft strategies, the next few months will define the team’s trajectory.

With the departure of key veterans looming, the quarterback situation uncertain, and a defense in need of reinforcements, the Vikings must make smart moves to remain competitive in the NFC North. The offseason calendar is packed with critical dates that will determine the team’s success in 2024 and beyond.

So, what are the most important dates for the Vikings’ offseason, and what decisions must they make along the way? Let’s dive into Minnesota’s offseason roadmap and the game-changing choices ahead.

1. Key Offseason Dates for the Minnesota Vikings

 February 20 – Franchise Tag Window Opens

One of the first big decisions the Vikings must make is whether to use the franchise tag on any key players. While Minnesota hasn’t been a team that frequently utilizes the tag, this offseason presents unique challenges.

Possible Franchise Tag Candidates:

• Danielle Hunter (OLB/DE) – The Vikings’ top pass rusher, set to hit free agency.
• Kirk Cousins (QB) – A long shot for the tag, but his contract situation remains uncertain.

Franchising Hunter would cost over $20 million, while Cousins would demand an astronomical amount, making it unlikely. However, the Vikings must weigh the risk of losing elite talent against their salary cap limitations.

 March 11-13 – Legal Tampering Period

This is where things get interesting. Teams can officially begin negotiations with unrestricted free agents before the official start of NFL Free Agency on March 13.

Biggest Decisions:

• Will the Vikings re-sign Kirk Cousins or move on to a new quarterback?
• Can they find a replacement for Danielle Hunter if he leaves?
• Will Minnesota target a big-name free agent to bolster the defense?

This 48-hour window is where teams lay the foundation for blockbuster signings, and the Vikings will need to be aggressive in addressing key roster holes.

 March 13 – NFL Free Agency Begins

This is D-Day for the Vikings’ roster. With several key players hitting free agency, Minnesota will need to make fast decisions.

Notable Vikings Free Agents:

• Kirk Cousins (QB) – Will Minnesota extend or move on?
• Danielle Hunter (OLB/DE) – Can the Vikings afford to lose their best pass rusher?
• Jordan Hicks (LB) – A solid veteran, but will he return?
• K.J. Osborn (WR) – Could be a cap casualty as the Vikings look to improve the WR depth.

If the Vikings want to compete in 2024, they must spend wisely in free agency while ensuring they retain critical players.

 April 25-27 – 2024 NFL Draft

One of the most anticipated events of the NFL offseason is the NFL Draft, and for the Vikings, this draft is critical.

Biggest Draft Priorities:
Quarterback of the Future? If Cousins leaves, do the Vikings draft a top QB?
Defensive Playmakers: The Vikings need help at cornerback, linebacker, and defensive tackle.
Wide Receiver Depth: Jefferson is a superstar, but the team could use another reliable WR.

The Vikings have the No. 11 overall pick, meaning they could target a franchise quarterback or trade down to acquire more picks.

 May 20 – OTA Workouts Begin

After the draft and free agency, it’s time to see the new-look Vikings take the field. The Organized Team Activities (OTAs) provide the first glimpse of how the roster is shaping up.

Storylines to Watch:

• Who will be Minnesota’s starting quarterback?
• How will the defense look under Brian Flores?
• Can Justin Jefferson build chemistry with a new QB if Cousins leaves?

While these workouts are non-contact, they provide valuable insight into Minnesota’s offseason moves.

2. The Quarterback Conundrum: The Biggest Decision of the Offseason

Perhaps the biggest question for the Vikings this offseason is what to do at quarterback.

 Option 1: Re-Sign Kirk Cousins

Pros:

• Proven veteran with consistent production.
• Already has strong chemistry with Justin Jefferson.
• Keeps the team competitive in the NFC North.

Cons:

• Will be 36 years old next season.
• Expensive—could cost $35-40 million per year.
• Limited mobility and struggles under pressure.

If the Vikings believe they are close to contending, bringing Cousins back makes sense. But if they’re looking toward the future, it may be time to move on.

 Option 2: Draft a Franchise Quarterback

If the Vikings decide to move on from Cousins, they could target a quarterback in the draft.

Top QB Prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft:

• Caleb Williams (USC) – Elite talent, but likely gone before Minnesota’s pick.
• Drake Maye (UNC) – Strong arm, mobile, and could develop into a star.
• J.J. McCarthy (Michigan) – A possible sleeper with a high ceiling.

This option would mean 2024 is a rebuilding year, but it could set the Vikings up for long-term success.

 Option 3: Trade for a Veteran QB

If the Vikings don’t love any of the rookie QBs, they could trade for a veteran like:

• Justin Fields (Bears) – Young, athletic, and could be a fresh start.
• Trey Lance (Cowboys) – Former top pick looking for a chance.

This bridge option would allow the Vikings to stay competitive while finding their long-term answer at QB.

3. Free Agency and the Draft: Rebuilding the Vikings’ Roster

Aside from the quarterback position, the Vikings have several key needs to address.

Key Positions of Need:
Edge Rusher – If Hunter leaves, the Vikings must find a replacement.
Cornerback – The defense needs more lockdown defenders.
Offensive Line Depth – Keeping the QB protected is a priority.
Wide Receiver – A WR2 to complement Justin Jefferson is a must.

Minnesota has limited cap space, so they must be strategic with their signings. Big spending in free agency isn’t likely, but smart additions could fill critical holes.

A Franchise-Altering Offseason for Minnesota

The Vikings’ offseason is packed with big decisions that will determine the team’s direction for the next several years.

Will Kirk Cousins stay or go?
Can the Vikings find their next franchise quarterback?

How will they replace key free agents like Danielle Hunter?
What moves will they make in free agency and the draft?

With the NFC North growing stronger, the Vikings must nail their offseason decisions to remain competitive. The future of the franchise is at stake, and every move matters.

Buckle up, Vikings fans—this offseason will be one of the most crucial in team history! 🚀