Why the Vikings Could Return to the Playoffs in 2026
The Minnesota Vikings failed to make the playoffs in 2025, so the first aim for the 2026 season is a […]
Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports The Minnesota Vikings failed to make the playoffs in 2025, so the first aim for the 2026 season is a return to the playoffs. That will be a tough ask in what should once again be a very competitive NFC North. Predictions about which non-playoff teams will make the playoffs next time around are a favorite topic in media circles during the offseason.
The Vikings’ divisional foe, the Detroit Lions, has been a popular choice in these discussions, as the Lions surprisingly finished at the bottom of the division last season. QB Stability Will Define Minnesota’s Ceiling Minnesota finished with the same record as the Lions last season, just half a game back of the Green Bay Packers, who made the playoffs as a wildcard team. Jan 15, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) looks on during warmups before a wild card game against the New York Giants at U.
S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports.
The Vikings have been put forward by some as a playoff-returning team in 2026, despite a relatively quiet offseason with no big splash moves to bring in new players. Of course, there was one very notable addition to the roster with the free agency signing of quarterback Kyler Murray. For those who believe the Vikings can be a playoff team in 2026, that move has made the difference.