The Minnesota Vikings closed out the season with a win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday. They finished with an 8-9 record and they have a lot to work on in the offseason.

They came out on top against the Bears, 31-17 with a fourth-quarter comeback. While the Vikings won the game, they are still far away from becoming a contender. It was an up and down season and was ultimately disappointing as they missed the NFL Playoffs. Coach Mike Zimmer and general manager Rick Spielman have been fired, which will send the franchise in a new direction.

The Vikings are currently constructed as a combination of veterans and young talent, but they need to add more firepower in the offseason to improve for next season.

Here are three takeaways from the Vikings' Week 18 victory over the Bears to end their 2021 season.

3. Vikings need to start a new regime

Before the Vikings can make any roster moves, they need to find their new leadership with a coach and a general manager. Zimmer simply has been disappointing over the past few seasons. Although he led the team to a comeback victory over the Bears, it was the right decision to move on.

A potential hire at coach could be Brian Flores, who was shockingly fired by the Miami Dolphins. Flores is a good coach who seems to get the best out of his players.

There are many other options, including Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. The decision will be crucial for the future of the franchise.

2. Vikings need to retool

After the Vikings pick out their coach and general manager, they need to fix the roster. They have young stars in wide receiver Justin Jefferson and running back Dalvin Cook.

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Cook had 14 carries for 79 yards and zero touchdowns against the Bears. It wasn't a dominant performance but he did enough to open up the passing game for quarterback Kirk Cousins. While the Vikings didn't have a great season, the offense has talented pieces and just needs to add a better offensive line.

Retooling the defense should be the team's top priority in free agency and the NFL Draft. The defensive performance against the Bears could give them momentum moving forward as they had two interceptions and seven sacks. Building a solid young defense would help the Vikings become an elite team once again.

1. Justin Jefferson is a top wide receiver in the league

Jefferson has proven to be one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. He had five receptions for 107 yards and a touchdown against the Bears.

This season, he tallied 108 receptions for 1,616 yards and 10 touchdowns. His route running and speed make him difficult for opposing defenses to contain. It is even harder for defenses when fellow wide receiver Adam Thielen is healthy, as it is challenging to stop both.

The 22-year-old Jefferson, who's only in his second year in the league, is primed to improve even more next season. His young career has been extraordinary and if the team adds more talent around him, he will make the Vikings a tough out in the NFC North.

Vikings fans have a long offseason ahead with the team facing critical decisions that will be integral for the future of the organization.