ESPN identifies Minnesota Vikings' rushing offense as major concern

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 1:15 PM

Last updated Jul 7, 2026

ESPN identifies Minnesota Vikings' rushing offense as major concern
Summary

ESPN highlighted the Minnesota Vikings’ rushing offense as their primary weakness as the regular season approaches in under 10 weeks. With last season's running backs finishing 30th in yards, the Vikings selected Demond Claiborne in the sixth round but made no other significant roster changes. ESPN analyst Mike Clay criticized the team for not strengthening its backfield, particularly with the older Aaron Jones coming off a poor season in missed tackle rate. As training camp approaches, the Vikings will rely on Jones and Jordan Mason while hoping Claiborne can provide a spark. Head coach Kevin O’Connell's commitment to improving the rushing attack is also under scrutiny heading into the 2026 season.

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Key Details
  • Minnesota Vikings’ rushing offense ranked 30th in rushing yards last season.
  • Demond Claiborne is the only notable addition to the backfield.
  • Aaron Jones enters his age-31 season after a challenging 2025.
  • The Vikings aim to improve their rushing play call percentage this season.
Latest Updates
  • 1:15 PMYahoo SportsESPN Calls Out Biggest Weakness for Vikings
What they're saying
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The Minnesota Vikings’ regular season is less than 10 weeks away, and when the team gets there, the rushing offense […]

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