Kevin O’Connell is back for his fifth year in Minneapolis as the Vikings look to build on last year’s 9-8 season. The central question is how new starting QB Kyler Murray will fit with Wes Phillips back as offensive coordinator. Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason return and will split time at running back. Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson lead the returning receiving corps, along with Jauan Jennings, who comes over from the 49ers. The Vikings also return four of their top five receivers and all five starters from their offensive line: Christian Darrisaw, Donovan Jackson, Blake Brandel, Will Fries, and Brian O’Neill.

Brian Flores is back as defensive coordinator for his fourth season. Minnesota returns nine of its top eleven tacklers from a year ago. The front seven returns Jalen Redmond, Dallas Turner, Eric Wilson, Blake Cashman, and Andrew Van Ginkel; the secondary returns Byron Murphy, Isaiah Rodgers, Josh Metellus, and Theo Jackson.

Special teams coordinator Matt Daniels returns for his fifth season. Will Reichard is back at placekicker after connecting on 94% of his field goals last year. Georgia rookie Brett Thorson will handle the punting duties, and Myles Price will be the primary return man. The burning question is how Kyler Murray will adapt to the system. The Vikings have plenty of continuity and should be ready to compete in an NFC North Division that will be competitive until the last week of the regular season.