Vikings Unveil 2025 Depth Chart Ahead of Preseason Opener

The Minnesota Vikings have unveiled their initial unofficial depth chart for the 2025 season, just in time for their preseason opener against the Houston Texans.

While the depth chart features 90 players, including starters and backups across all positions, it holds no major surprises. Many of these players will ultimately not make the final roster.

At quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, entering his second year, is positioned as the starter, with Sam Howell serving as the primary backup. Head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed that McCarthy will see action in the first preseason game, while Howell is expected to receive significant playing time as well.

Rookie first-round pick Donovan Jackson has secured a starting role at guard. Meanwhile, Justin Skule is set to step in as a reliever for left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who is recovering from dual knee injuries.

Wide receiver Jordan Addison, slated as the team's No. 2 behind star Justin Jefferson, will begin the season suspended. This opens the door for Jalen Nailor, the No. 3 receiver, to take on a larger role during Addison's absence. Behind Nailor are Lucky Jackson and rookie Tai Felton.

The cornerback position presents some uncertainty for the Vikings. The depth chart lists Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers as starters, with Mekhi Blackmon and Jeff Okudah next in line. Murphy had a standout season last year with six interceptions and secured a lucrative contract this offseason. However, the depth behind him raises questions: Blackmon missed all of last season due to a torn ACL, Rodgers has yet to prove himself as a full-time starter, and Okudah has struggled since being drafted third overall in 2020.

Dallas Turner, a first-round pick from last year, remains a backup at outside linebacker. While this isn't alarming yet, fans and the organization hope to see him take on a more significant role behind Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel, both of whom excelled in Brian Flores' defense last season.

In the punting department, Ryan Wright is currently facing competition from Oscar Chapman for the starting position.

Free agent acquisition Rondale Moore, who is on the mend from an ACL injury, is listed as the team's punt returner. Known for his agility with the ball, he will contend with Lucky Jackson and undrafted rookie Silas Bolden for this role. Felton is designated as the primary kickoff returner.

The Vikings are set to clash with the Texans at U.S. Bank Stadium this Saturday at 3 p.m.