As the Minnesota Vikings gear up for a pivotal offseason, they are expected to be highly active in free agency, which officially begins on March 12. However, free agency isn’t the only avenue they’re exploring to bolster their roster. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is also keeping a close eye on potential trade opportunities, and as the offseason progresses, the list of available players continues to expand.
With multiple players set to hit the open market, the Vikings must navigate a crucial period where they’ll need to address various roster deficiencies while also improving key areas of the team. The quarterback position has been the dominant storyline, but Minnesota has several other pressing needs that must be addressed before they can seriously prepare for the 2025 season. The good news is they have financial flexibility, with over $60 million in cap space, allowing them to pursue impactful additions.
Davon Godchaux: A Potential Solution for Minnesota’s Defensive Line
One of the biggest weaknesses in Minnesota’s current roster is the interior defensive line. While the team has been linked to Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen—who has been given permission to seek a trade—another intriguing name has surfaced as a possible solution: New England Patriots defensive tackle Davon Godchaux.
Standing 6’3” and weighing 330 pounds, Godchaux is a formidable presence in the trenches, particularly as a run defender. While he may not offer the same pass-rushing upside as Allen, his ability to clog running lanes and provide consistent interior pressure makes him a valuable asset. The Vikings struggled against the run in 2024, making a player of Godchaux’s profile a logical target.
Godchaux, a former fifth-round pick, has played eight NFL seasons, splitting his career between the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots. Interestingly, he played under current Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores when Flores was the Dolphins’ head coach in 2019 and 2020. That familiarity could work in Minnesota’s favor if they decide to pursue a trade.
Over the course of his career, Godchaux has started 109 of the 120 games he has played, recording 429 total tackles, including 67 last season. While his sack numbers (5.5 career sacks) don’t stand out, he has contributed 20 tackles for loss and 26 quarterback hits, showcasing his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield.
The financial aspect of acquiring Godchaux is also favorable. He is entering the final year of his two-year contract with the Patriots and is set to earn a $4 million base salary in 2025, carrying a manageable $8.33 million cap hit. If Minnesota is looking for an experienced, reliable run-stopper to pair with Harrison Phillips, Godchaux would be an excellent fit. Given the Vikings’ defensive infrastructure and his past connection with Flores, there is a strong possibility that discussions have already taken place between the two teams.
Jonah Jackson: An Answer for Minnesota’s Offensive Line Woes?
Minnesota isn’t just focused on the defensive side of the ball—they also have concerns on the offensive line, particularly in the interior. One potential solution could be Los Angeles Rams guard Jonah Jackson, who has been granted permission to explore trade options.
Jackson, a former third-round pick by the Detroit Lions, is no stranger to the NFC North, which could make a return to the division an attractive option. The 27-year-old made his first Pro Bowl appearance in 2021, a season in which he started all 16 games for the Lions. However, injuries and a dip in performance have impacted his career trajectory over the past two years.
After signing a three-year, $51 million deal with the Rams in 2024, Jackson played in just four games last season before falling out of favor. With the Rams seemingly willing to move on from him, the Vikings could potentially acquire him at a discounted price.
In 2025, Jackson is set to earn a $9 million base salary while carrying a $14.6 million cap hit. However, his contract structure allows for a relatively painless exit after the season, as his team would only incur a $5.6 million dead cap hit if they choose to move on from him. Given Minnesota’s need for reinforcements along the interior offensive line, Jackson could be an immediate upgrade over players like Blake Brandel and Dalton Risner.
If the Vikings believe Jackson can regain his Pro Bowl form, he could be a smart addition. While his high cap hit could be a factor in trade negotiations, the fact that he struggled last season may lower his overall trade value, potentially making him an affordable option for Minnesota.
Balancing Free Agency, Trades, and the NFL Draft
The Vikings’ approach to roster building this offseason will likely be a mix of aggressive free-agent signings, strategic trades, and a well-executed draft plan. By first addressing their most pressing needs through free agency and trades, the front office can enter April’s NFL Draft with more flexibility.
The quarterback situation remains the biggest unanswered question, as Minnesota must decide whether to retain Kirk Cousins, pursue a veteran replacement, or target a young prospect in the draft. If they secure their starting quarterback early in the offseason, it could shift their focus toward reinforcing both the offensive and defensive lines.
Additional Trade Possibilities for Minnesota
Beyond Godchaux and Jackson, the Vikings could explore several other trade options to fill key roster gaps.
1. Pass Rusher Help
If Minnesota is unable to re-sign star edge rusher Danielle Hunter, they may need to acquire a veteran pass rusher. Players like Philadelphia’s Haason Reddick or New England’s Josh Uche could be trade targets to bolster the team’s ability to generate pressure off the edge.
2. Cornerback Reinforcements
The Vikings’ secondary showed promise last season, but additional depth could be beneficial. Potential trade targets include Indianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II or Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Carlton Davis III, both of whom could step in as immediate contributors.
3. Wide Receiver Depth
While Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison form a strong receiving duo, adding another proven weapon could elevate the offense. Players like San Francisco’s Brandon Aiyuk or Cincinnati’s Tee Higgins might be available, especially if contract negotiations with their current teams stall.
Final Thoughts: A Crucial Offseason Ahead for the Vikings
The 2025 offseason will be a defining period for the Minnesota Vikings as they look to reshape their roster and position themselves as legitimate contenders in the NFC North. With a significant amount of cap space and multiple avenues to acquire talent, the front office has the tools necessary to make impactful moves.
While Davon Godchaux and Jonah Jackson present intriguing trade possibilities, they are just two of many potential acquisitions the Vikings could explore. By strategically balancing free agency, trades, and the draft, Minnesota can ensure they enter the 2025 season with a well-rounded and competitive roster.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and the Vikings’ decision-making process, as each move they make will shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.
Breaking: Just now, Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah announces new Blockbuster trade move to strengthen a key position, putting on hold the Quarterback challenges
