2025 NFL Draft: Why the Vikings Must Improve at Defensive Tackle.

The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2025 offseason with clear defensive needs, and one of the most pressing is upgrading the defensive tackle position. While their defense showed flashes of promise in 2024, their struggles against the run and inconsistent interior pass rush exposed a glaring weakness. If the Vikings hope to compete in a loaded NFC North and take the next step toward playoff contention, improving their defensive tackle unit in the 2025 NFL Draft must be a priority.

Run Defense Woes Must Be Addressed

Stopping the run has been a persistent issue for the Vikings. Last season, they ranked in the bottom half of the league in rushing yards allowed per game, frequently getting gashed by opposing running backs. Their defensive tackles struggled to control the line of scrimmage, allowing too many runs to break into the second level.

A strong run-stuffing defensive tackle could immediately improve this area. The Vikings need a player with the size, strength, and technique to clog running lanes and prevent teams from dominating time of possession. While their edge rushers and linebackers have performed well in spurts, a dominant presence in the middle would help free them up to make more plays.

Lack of Interior Pass Rush Hurts the Defense

Another issue for Minnesota has been the lack of an interior pass rush. In today’s NFL, applying pressure up the middle is just as important as having elite edge rushers. Quarterbacks who are given a clean pocket can carve up defenses, and the Vikings struggled to collapse the pocket from the inside in 2024.

Outside of occasional flashes from their current interior linemen, the Vikings lacked a consistent disruptor who could push the pocket and generate sacks. Adding a defensive tackle with pass-rushing skills would take pressure off their edge rushers and create more opportunities for the defense to force turnovers.

2025 Draft Class Offers Strong Options

Fortunately, the 2025 NFL Draft presents several intriguing options at defensive tackle. Prospects like Jer’Zhan Newton (Illinois), Leonard Taylor III (Miami), and Maason Smith (LSU) could provide an immediate impact. Whether the Vikings target a first-round talent or find a mid-round gem, this class has the depth to provide them with a much-needed boost in the trenches.

Given the current state of their defensive line, Minnesota should strongly consider using one of their early picks on a defensive tackle who can contribute right away. Pairing a rookie with veteran leadership could create a more balanced and effective unit.

Conclusion

If the Vikings want to improve defensively in 2025, investing in a defensive tackle is a must. Shoring up their run defense and adding an interior pass-rushing presence will make their entire defense more effective. With the NFC North becoming more competitive, Minnesota cannot afford to ignore this weakness any longer. The 2025 NFL Draft is the perfect opportunity to address the issue and build a stronger foundation for the future.