As the NFL season kicks off this week with primetime games on Thursday and Friday, the Minnesota Vikings are a favorite in their road matchup Sunday against the New York Giants.
The initial 53-man roster has been revamped from last season, which proved a disappointment for fans after serious injuries to Kirk Cousins and Justin Jefferson.
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Minnesota signed Jefferson to the largest contract for a non-quarterback in NFL history , but with Cousins departing to the Atlanta Falcons, major questions remain for a squad competing in one of the toughest divisions in the league. Detroit and Green Bay won playoff games last year, and Chicago made big roster changes to upgrade the talent in the Windy City.
How competitive will the Vikings be in a division known for its toughness?
With holes created by big-name departures — like Cousins and star defensive end Danielle Hunter — the team will need newcomers to fill the void to regain their position on perch on top of the NFC North division.
Below is a graphic providing an overview of the Vikings and the upcoming season.