The Vikings’ Starting Lineup as Training Camp Gets Rolling

The Vikings’ starting lineup isn’t set in stone. That being said, there are many details that are already known.

Nobody is going to force Justin Jefferson out of his spot as the team’s WR1. Likewise, Andrew Van Ginkel, Brian O’Neill, Byron Murphy Jr., and various others have their jobs secured. Only injury — fingers crossed that any that arise are exceedingly minor — can threaten their spots on Minnesota’s depth chart.

Check out one man’s take on how the hierarchy will look for Week 1 of the 2026 season. Swing around to the team website for a clarifying list of the team’s players.

The Vikings’ Starting Lineup: An Educated Guess

Offense — 11 Personnel

Competition: As some may have heard, the QB1 spot is up for grabs. My guess for the past little while is that Murray starts in Week 1 but that J.J. McCarthy starts more games in 2026. Can Jordan Mason overtake Aaron Jones to be the top Vikings runner? Something to be said for Mr. Mason, a hammer who treats defenders like nails.

Riddle: Is Mr. Brandel going to get the job done as a center? Does the team pull off a trade for somebody like Garrett Bradbury? Looks like the in-house competition is determined but Brandel still has something to prove.

Signed, Sealed, & Delivered: Nobody is going to displace Justin Jefferson. Brian O’Neill and Christian Darrisaw are a terrific tandem who could become elite if everything goes perfectly. Jordan Addison is set for a great season. Oh, and Donovan Jackson is going to become very good. A matter of when and not if.

Defense – Nickle

Competition: Who is the DT2 for the Vikings? Mr. Redmond has earned the right to be the DT1 in 2026 after proving so impressive in 2024 and 2025. The center fielder position, otherwise known as free safety, is going to be a battle. I say it goes to Mr. Ward. Theo Jackson and Jakobe Thomas will try to prove me wrong.

Riddle: How does Jake Golday fit into the mix? The long, speedy linebacker appears to be perfect for Brian Flores. Caleb Banks and Domonique Orange are going get snaps. And what of the veteran linebackers? Can they shine despite being a touch older?

Signed, Sealed, & Delivered: Andrew Van Ginkel is a cyborg. Dallas Turner will be supporting the cyborg as he tries to become a cyborg. A top trio of corners consisting of Murphy, Rodgers, and Pierre has the potential to be very good. Not shutdown elite, but good enough to send receivers home frustrated. Metellus is shooting for a bounce back.

Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Email: k.joudry[at]vikingsterritory[dot]com. Canadian. Jude 1:24-25.