In a surprising turn for Minnesota Vikings fans, CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco’s 2025 NFL Top 100 Players list includes just two Vikings, despite the team’s stellar 14-win season and roster improvements during the offseason. With an average of three players per team expected in such a ranking, the absence of several standout performers has sparked debate about potential snubs. Let’s dive into who made the cut and who was controversially overlooked.
Vikings Who Made the List
Justin Jefferson – No. 5
Topping the list for Minnesota is star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, ranked No. 5 overall and the highest-ranked wide receiver. Prisco praised Jefferson’s dominance, noting, “He continues to make a strong case as the best receiver in the league.” Last season, Jefferson hauled in 103 receptions, scored 10 touchdowns, and led the NFL with 28 catches of 20 yards or more. His elite production and playmaking ability cement him as a cornerstone of the Vikings’ offense and a no-brainer for the top tier of this list.
Christian Darrisaw – No. 59
The only other Viking to crack the top 100 is left tackle Christian Darrisaw, slotted at No. 59 and the seventh-ranked offensive tackle. Despite being limited to seven starts last season due to a torn ACL, Darrisaw’s impact was undeniable. Prisco highlighted his dominance, stating, “When he was on the field, he was playing at a dominating level. He’s one of the best pass blockers in the league.” Darrisaw’s inclusion reflects his potential as a cornerstone of Minnesota’s offensive line when healthy.
The Case for the Snubbed
The Vikings’ 14-3 record last season and their bolstered roster suggest they deserved more representation. Here are three players who were glaringly omitted from Prisco’s list, along with arguments for their inclusion.
OLB Andrew Van Ginkel
Outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel had a breakout 2024 season, making his exclusion from the top 100 baffling. Van Ginkel recorded 11.5 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and two pick-sixes, showcasing his versatility and impact. His performance earned him second-team All-Pro honors and a seventh-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting. As one of the NFL’s most productive defenders, Van Ginkel deserves a spot in at least the top 50, if not higher.
OLB Jonathan Greenard
Edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is another head-scratching omission. With 12 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles, Greenard was a disruptive force. According to Pro Football Focus, his 80 quarterback pressures in the regular season trailed only Myles Garrett (No. 2 on Prisco’s list) and Trey Hendrickson (No. 26). If Danielle Hunter, with comparable stats, landed at No. 47, Greenard’s absence is inexplicable. His impact on the Vikings’ defense warrants top-100 recognition.
CB Byron Murphy Jr.
Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. also has a strong case for inclusion. In a Pro Bowl-caliber season, he recorded six interceptions, 14 passes defended, and six tackles for loss. While his omission might be less egregious than Van Ginkel’s or Greenard’s, Murphy’s playmaking ability in the secondary makes him a worthy candidate for the lower end of the top 100.
Honorable Mentions
Beyond these three, players like right tackle Brian O’Neill, wide receiver Jordan Addison, and safety Josh Metellus could also be considered for the list. O’Neill’s reliability, Addison’s emerging talent, and Metellus’ versatility add depth to the Vikings’ roster, further highlighting the team’s underrepresentation.
Looking Ahead
The Vikings’ sparse showing on Prisco’s list feels like a slight, given their success and talent. However, the upcoming NFL Top 100, voted on by the league’s players, may tell a different story. Will more Vikings earn recognition from their peers? Fans will have to wait until later this summer to find out. For now, Minnesota’s faithful can only wonder why so many of their stars were left off Prisco’s prestigious ranking.