NFC North power rankings: Packers still have work to do after draft

2. Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings also underachieved a year ago, missing the playoffs just one season after reaching the NFC Championship Game. But the Vikings went a long way to fixing some of their biggest needs ahead of the new season.

Defensively, Minnesota should be as strong as ever. After finishing No. 3 in total defense last year, the Vikings have been able to keep the core of their defense together. They did lose Sheldon Richardson in free agency, but Mike Zimmer’s defense should still be among the best in the league in 2019.

Where the Vikings needed to improve was offensively. Despite signing Kirk Cousins to a huge deal last spring, the Vikings offense was good for just 20th in the NFL. Getting better on this side of the ball required adding to the offensive line, which is exactly what they did.

The Vikings drafted three offensive linemen — center Garrett Bradbury, guard Dru Samia and tackle Oli Udoh. They also signed guard Josh Kline in free agency. It’s fair to expect better protection from the Vikings offensive line this year.

Another smart move was to draft tight end Irv Smith Jr in the second round. He was the best option at the position outside of the two Iowa TEs, and he’ll be able to contribute as a rookie.

The Vikings have put together a solid offseason and they have the tools to make it back to the playoffs. It’ll be down to Kirk Cousins.