As the Minnesota Vikings prepare for their regular season finale against the Green Bay Packers, fans have compelling reasons to pay attention, even though the game holds no postseason implications. A highlight of the matchup will be watching three young defenders whose performances are paving the way for a promising future heading into the 2026 season.
First up is outside linebacker Dallas Turner, who is making significant strides in his second NFL season. The 22-year-old former first-round draft pick has seen an increase in playing time, more than doubling his rookie season minutes. With impressive statistics that include 60 tackles, 40 pressures, six sacks, and three forced fumbles, Turner’s development has been noteworthy. His recent performance against the Lions showcased his potential, where he recorded five pressures and contributed a half-sack and a tackle for loss. As he hones his skills, his ability as both a pass rusher and run defender marks him as a key player for the Vikings’ future, especially with a high ceiling still ahead of him.
Another young player to watch is defensive tackle Jalen Redmond, who, at 26, is also generating excitement as he enters what is typically considered the prime of an athlete’s career. In just his second season, Redmond has enjoyed a breakout year, accumulating six sacks and ranking 14th out of 55 NFL defensive tackles in Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades. Notably, his standout performance included nine pressures in a single game against the Chargers. As he continues to solidify his role in the Vikings’ defense, Redmond is likely to be a focal point for the team moving forward.
Safety Jay Ward, now in his third season, has recently emerged as a noteworthy contributor after primarily serving on special teams behind established safeties. With Josh Metellus on injured reserve, Ward has seized the opportunity to showcase his talent, achieving career highs in snap count and production. His ability to adapt to various roles within the defense, coupled with his recent performances yielding significant tackle counts and a high PFF grade, puts him in a strategic position for an expanded role in 2026, especially in light of potential changes to the safety depth chart.
As the Vikings look ahead to the future, the performances of these three young defenders not only provide fans with hope but also highlight the team’s commitment to building a competitive roster for the seasons to come. Their development signals a bright future for the Vikings’ defense and an exciting prospect as they prepare to tackle the 2026 season.