Dallas Turner, the Minnesota Vikings’ first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a rookie season to forget. Despite high expectations as a defensive star from Alabama, Turner was overshadowed by veterans like Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and even Patrick Jones. With the Vikings investing significant draft capital to acquire him, the pressure is on Turner to break out in his second year. Here are 5 “shocking” things Turner must do to make the 2025 season a turning point in his career.
1. Overtake the “Wall” of Van Ginkel and Greenard to Earn a Starting Spot
A shocking reality: Turner, despite being a highly touted talent, is currently the third option at outside linebacker behind Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel. The Vikings’ decision to extend Van Ginkel’s contract sends a clear message: Turner must prove he deserves a starting role. To achieve this, he needs to sharpen his play recognition and technical skills to outshine his veteran teammates in practice. If he fails, he risks remaining stuck in a backup role—a scenario no one anticipated for a No. 17 overall pick.
2. Log at Least 500 Defensive Snaps in the 2025 Season
In his rookie year, Turner saw limited action, playing only about 200-300 defensive snaps due to being buried behind veterans. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has called him a “rising star,” but to break out, Turner needs to increase his playing time to at least 500-600 snaps (roughly 30-35 snaps per game). This means capitalizing on opportunities created by Patrick Jones’ departure to the Panthers while demonstrating consistency and stamina in high-pressure situations. This leap is what the Vikings expect to see the return on their hefty draft investment.
3. Record at Least 8 Sacks—A “Mind-Blowing” Goal After a Quiet Rookie Year
Turner had almost no impact in the sack category during his first season, a shocking outcome for an edge rusher expected to be a “quarterback hunter.” To prove he’s not a bust, Turner must aim for at least 8 sacks in 2025. With support from new defensive additions like Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, coupled with Brian Flores’ aggressive schemes, Turner has a chance to exploit blitz opportunities and relentlessly pressure opposing offenses. Such an impressive tally would make fans forget his lackluster rookie campaign.
4. Develop More Versatile Skills Beyond Explosive Speed
Turner is known for his speed and explosiveness, but that alone isn’t enough in the NFL. A shocking critique is that he lacks finesse in techniques like “hand-fighting” or shedding blocks from offensive linemen. To succeed, Turner should take cues from Van Ginkel, who recorded 6 pass breakups and 2 interceptions (both pick-sixes). By improving his coverage skills in the passing game or creating big plays, Turner can become a well-rounded threat rather than relying solely on physicality.
5. Shift His Mindset to Overcome the Pressure of His Costly Draft Price
The Vikings paid a steep price for Turner: picks No. 23 and 167 in 2024, plus third- and fifth-round picks in 2025. Shockingly, if Turner doesn’t break out, GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah could face heavy criticism for this trade, especially since Jacksonville used their pick to draft star offensive player Brian Thomas Jr. Turner must transform this pressure into motivation to prove his worth. A successful 2025 season would not only salvage his career but also protect Adofo-Mensah’s reputation.
Conclusion
Dallas Turner stands at a critical juncture in his career. With Patrick Jones’ departure and an upgraded defensive line, the opportunity for him to shine is immense. However, to turn expectations into reality, Turner must take bold and shocking steps as outlined. Can he rise to the challenge and become a cornerstone for the Vikings? The 2025 season will provide the answer.