Before the NFL preseason took place and prior to the announcement of Irv Smith Jr.’s season-long injury, most Minnesota Vikings fans were high on the organization for 2021 aspirations after an eventful offseason.
New coaches were welcomed as Klint Kubiak took over the offense, Keenan McCardell the wide receivers, Ryan Ficken the special teams, and Phil Rausher the offensive line. Under one umbrella, that’s a lot of new blood to lead the coaching staff.
Free agents galore — particularly on defense — was also a source of enthusiasm. Even with a budget strapped by coronavirus fallout, the Vikings maintained a steady stream of cash throughout the offseason.