Analysts identify Dallas Turner as breakout candidate for Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2026 season looking for Dallas Turner to secure a significant role on defense. The team cleared space for the third-year EDGE rusher by trading Jonathan Greenard to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for two third-round picks. Brian Flores utilized Turner throughout training camp, where he demonstrated improved speed and power during joint practices against the Baltimore Ravens. ESPN analyst Ben Solak designated Turner as an X-factor for the upcoming campaign, citing a surge in quick pressures over the final eight weeks of the 2025 season as evidence of his development. While he operated primarily as a rotational player while filling in for injured starters like Andrew Van Ginkel, he is now positioned to take on a larger workload as a primary starter. His transition to a full-time role remains a critical factor for the overall success of the Minnesota defensive unit.

• 11:25 PMYahoo Sports — Analyst dubs Dallas Turner as player to watch for Vikings in 2026