What could the Vikings starting defense look like in 2026?

The defense for the Minnesota Vikings will look very different from what it did just one year ago. This is thanks in large part to some massive cuts made to get under the salary cap. However, Minnesota did a good job filling some holes through the 2026 NFL draft, and we could see multiple rookies playing a factor in 2026.

What could this defense look like next season? Bleacher Report has the potential answer , as they recently released an article, projecting both sides of the ball for all 32 NFL teams, and here is their projection for the Vikings: Edge: Andrew Van Ginkel, Dallas Turner DT: Caleb Banks, Domonique Orange LB: Blake Cashman, Eric Wilson CB: James Pierre, Isaiah Rodgers, Byron Murphy Jr. S: Joshua Metellus (SS), Jay Ward (FS) The only confusing part of this projection is that Jalen Redmond is not starting at defensive tackle opposite Caleb Banks.

Based on his play from a season ago, and signing an extension in Minnesota this offseason, how he does not crack the starting lineup is certainly curious. Could this defense be a top-five unit again in 2026? This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: The Vikings defense could be a lot of fun in 2026