When drafting for your fantasy football team, selecting the right Minnesota Vikings players can offer significant advantages.
The Vikings have a mix of established stars and emerging talent that can help you build a strong roster. Here’s a detailed strategy for targeting Vikings players in your fantasy football draft.
Quarterback Considerations: Kirk Cousins and J.J. McCarthy
Kirk Cousins remains a cornerstone for fantasy football managers looking for a stable and consistent quarterback. In the 2023 season, Cousins demonstrated his reliability again, posting 2,331 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and only 5 interceptions over 8 games. His passer rating stood at 103.8, showcasing his efficiency and ability to manage the game effectively.
With the Vikings’ offensive scheme and his connection with top-tier receivers like Justin Jefferson, Cousins is a dependable mid-round draft pick for fantasy managers looking for steady production.
The Vikings have an exciting prospect in J.J. McCarthy, their rookie quarterback from Michigan. McCarthy is known for his athleticism and accuracy, especially on mid-field throws. Although he might not start immediately, drafting McCarthy in dynasty leagues could be a strategic move. His college career at Michigan showcased his potential, where he completed 64.6% of his passes for 2,719 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions in his final season.
McCarthy’s ability to create plays on the move and his strong arm make him a valuable asset for the future. Fantasy managers should consider him a stash in deeper leagues, expecting him to become a significant contributor as he acclimates to the NFL.
Running Backs: Alexander Mattison and Ray Davis
With Dalvin Cook’s departure, Alexander Mattison has assumed the primary running back role for the Minnesota Vikings. Mattison’s 2023 season stats include 700 rushing yards on 180 carries, averaging 3.9 yards per carry, and 30 receptions for 192 yards with three receiving touchdowns.
His performance last season indicates his capacity to handle a heavy workload, making him a high-upside pick. Given his expected share of carries, Mattison positions himself as a solid RB2 or flex option in most fantasy formats. His consistency and ability to contribute in the passing game add significant value, particularly in PPR leagues.
Ray Davis, a promising rookie from Kentucky, is another player to consider. Davis combines power and pass-catching abilities, offering potential fantasy value, especially if Mattison struggles or faces injuries. In his final college season, Davis recorded over 1,500 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level. His versatility and skill set make him a valuable late-round stash in deeper leagues, where he could push Mattison for touches as the season progresses.
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Wide Receivers: Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison
Justin Jefferson is a top-five pick in all fantasy formats. His elite route-running, hands, and ability to create separation make him one of the most valuable players in fantasy football. Jefferson’s rapport with Cousins ensures a high volume of targets, translating to consistent production week in and week out.
Jordan Addison, drafted to complement Jefferson, is another receiver to target. Addison’s agility and speed perfectly balance Jefferson’s skill set, allowing him to thrive in the Vikings’ offensive scheme. He’s an excellent mid-round pick with WR3 upside, especially in PPR leagues where his route-running prowess can shine.
Tight End: T.J. Hockenson
T.J. Hockenson is a top-tier tight-end option, consistently ranking among the best. His ability to stretch the field and act as a red-zone threat makes him a key target, especially in leagues that reward tight-end production.
Hockenson’s chemistry with Cousins and usage in the Vikings’ offensive scheme makes him a solid pick in the earlier rounds, ensuring you secure one of the few elite tight ends available.
Defensive Strategy
While defenses are often selected in later drafts, the Vikings’ defense should not be overlooked. With new additions and a focus on improving their pass rush and secondary, the Vikings’ defense could be a sleeper pick.
Investing in a solid defensive unit can sometimes make the difference in close matchups, providing a steady stream of points through turnovers and sacks.
Conclusion
Targeting Minnesota Vikings players in your fantasy football draft can offer a mix of high-floor and high-ceiling options. Numerous opportunities exist to build a strong team, from the reliable production of Kirk Cousins and Justin Jefferson to the potential breakout performances of rookies like J.J. McCarthy and Ray Davis. By focusing on these key players and understanding their roles within the Vikings’ offensive and defensive schemes, you can maximize your draft strategy and set your team up for success in the upcoming season.
