The Minnesota Vikings had a successful 2022 NFL season, making the playoffs for the second time in the last five years. However, they were unable to make a deep playoff run, and there are still areas of the team that need improvement. With the 2023 NFL season approaching, there are several bold predictions for the Vikings that could help them take the next step and become a true contender. Here are four bold predictions for the Minnesota Vikings in the 2023 NFL season.

Minnesota Vikings' performance in 2022

The Vikings had a strong regular season in 2022, finishing with a 13-4 record. However, they were unable to make a deep playoff run. They lost in the Wild Card Round to the New York Giants. Despite the disappointing end to the season, there were several positives for the Vikings. Quarterback Kirk Cousins had a very solid campaign, throwing for close to 4,600 yards and 29 touchdowns. Erstwhile running back Dalvin Cook was also a key contributor, rushing for over 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns. Too bad he's now with the New York Jets. Justin Jefferson, of course, was also terrific with more than 1,800 yards and eight touchdowns. The defense was solid as well, bannered by Danielle Hunter's 10.5 sacks.

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As we gear up for the upcoming 2023 NFL Regular Season, it's time to put forth some daring forecasts for Kirk Cousins and the Vikings. Let's delve into these predictions step by step.

4. Justin Jefferson's Not the Top Receiver in the League

Let's take a moment to consider Justin Jefferson's potential performance in the forthcoming season. Sure, he undoubtedly shined as a top-tier receiver last year. Still, some significant changes could impact his standing. Jefferson's dominance was also bolstered by favorable circumstances that were no longer the same. TJ Hockenson is now a consistent presence for the full season, and Jordan Addison's arrival fills in the void left by Adam Thielen. With improvements expected in the defense led by Brian Flores and potential setbacks in the running game without Dalvin Cook, the combined effect might cast a shadow over Jefferson's claim to the title of the undisputed WR1.

Previously, Jefferson was the primary target in the red zone. However, Hockenson's presence will shift that dynamic. Recall that Jefferson's red-zone opportunities dropped from 2.3 per game to 1.3 after Week 10 in 2022. These shifts, while not drastic in isolation, hold weight when discussing the top receiver. Moreover, there's a healthy Cooper Kupp, who's proven his mettle with consistent performance and stands as a strong contender for the WR1 spot in 2023. Consequently, Jefferson might share the limelight with talents like Ja'Marr Chase and Tyreek Hill in the WR2 conversation. To be clear, Jefferson remains a top-five wide receiver, but he's not going to be No. 1 overall.

3. Christian Darrisaw's Breakout Year

Christian Darrisaw showcased his prowess as an emerging talent in the previous season. He even made a strong case for an All-Pro spot. His impressive PFF grade of 90.3 ranked second only to Trent Williams. This demonstrated his proficiency in both overall play and run-blocking. In fact, up till Week 11 of 2022, Darrisaw hadn't conceded a sack. Cousins was very happy about that. We see him potentially emerging to All-Pro status as one of the premier linemen in the league.

2. Jordan Addison's Rookie of the Year Bid

In every draft class, certain players tend to be overlooked due to their physical attributes. Jordan Addison, despite not boasting standout metrics, has consistently demonstrated exceptional play at different college stages. His college years showcased his ability to garner at least 2.9 yards per route run. That's a great sign for the Vikings. Amidst the transition to the NFL, Addison's skills appear to have translated seamlessly during training camp and the preseason. As he takes the field alongside the attention-demanding Justin Jefferson, Addison's performance is poised to make a statement. And with Thielen now out of Minnesota Addison should be the undisputed WR2 ahead of even KJ Osborn. He should set the stage for a compelling Offensive Rookie of the Year contention.

1. Kirk Cousins Among Passing Yard Leaders

Kirk Cousins found himself throwing the ball more frequently in the past season. Although his yards per attempt and touchdown rate dipped, factors like offensive adjustments and Adam Thielen's declining performance influenced his numbers. However, with Thielen's departure and the addition of rookie Jordan Addison, Cousins gains a fresh target with a knack for big gains. Addison's college career average of 14.3 yards per reception bodes well for Cousins' downfield passing game.

A full season with TJ Hockenson also enhances Cousins' prospects. He should aim to elevate his yards per attempt while maintaining high efficiency. Maintaining or even increasing the pass rate should position Cousins as a leading passer in the NFL in 2023. This follows his fourth-place finish in 2022, even with increased passing volume.

Looking Ahead

The Minnesota Vikings concluded the 2022 NFL season on a positive note but fell short of a deep playoff run. As we peer into the crystal ball for the 2023 season, bold predictions surface, suggesting an impressive journey ahead. The emergence of Christian Darrisaw and Jordan Addison will be key. This is even as Justin Jefferson might fall down to the earth a little bit. For his part, Kirk Cousins should be a top-tier passer again. These will all contribute to the Vikings' potential return to the postseason.