The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books, and all eyes are now on the upcoming regular season. For the Minnesota Vikings, this year brings a fresh look—and possibly a bright future. After a transformative offseason, the team is shaping up to be much different from their 2025 squad, and that could be a very good thing.

With a new quarterback in Kyler Murray, two fresh defensive linemen, and added depth in the secondary, the Vikings have addressed key areas that needed reinforcement. But the big question remains: can these moves turn them into a surprise contender this season?

CBS Sports analyst Tyler Sullivan certainly thinks so. In a recent article highlighting five long-shot Super Bowl contenders, Sullivan placed the Vikings at No. 3 on his list. The biggest factor, he says, is whether head coach Kevin O'Connell can unlock Murray's full potential. If he can, the Vikings have already proven that competent quarterback play can make them a real threat—just look at Sam Darnold's resurgence in 2024.

For fans, the prospect of seeing Minnesota back in the playoffs is exciting, and 2026 might just be the year it happens. Whether you're gearing up for game day or just love the purple and gold, this is a team worth watching.